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Excess Quote by William Zinsser

“Few people realize how badly they write. Nobody has shown them how much excess or murkiness has crept into their style.” quote by William Zinsser
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“Few people realize how badly they write. Nobody has shown them how much excess or murkiness has crept into their style.”

William Zinsser

About This Quote

Source Book: Your Career in Writing, William Zinsser, 1986

Many writers are unaware of the clutter and lack of clarity in their prose, leading to ineffective communication.

In simple terms: Writers often write unclearly.

Key Takeaway

Simplify and edit ruthlessly.

Themes

writing clarity communication

Mood

frustrated reflective

Type

advice instructional

When to use this quote

  • editing
  • teaching writing
  • professional reports
  • academic papers

Key Concepts

style excess murkiness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you identify unnecessary words?
  • What habits cause vague writing?
A Different Perspective

Clutter can be intentional for artistic effect.

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