There is not an idea that cannot be expressed in 200 words. But the writer must know precisely what he wants to say. If you have nothing to say and want badly to say it, then all the words in all the dictionaries will not suffice.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Any idea can be said in 200 words if the writer knows what they want to say.
- In plain terms
- You can say anything in 200 words if you are clear.
- What can you take from it?
- Clarity allows brevity.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can you summarize your work in 200 words?
- Is length a sign of depth?
Another view
Complex topics may need more than 200 words.
More from Eric Hoffer
Wordiness is a sickness of American writing. Too many words dilute and blur ideas.
Permalink to quote #4 If anybody asks me what I have accomplished, I will say all I have accomplished is that I have written a few good sentences.
Permalink to quote #6 It was the craving to be a one and only people which impelled the ancient Hebrews to invent a one and only God whose one and only people they were to be.
Permalink to quote #3
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