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About this quote

What does it mean?
Simple words can sound musical and refined when spoken with skill and character.
In plain terms
Simple words sound better when spoken with skill and character.
What can you take from it?
Delivery and character matter as much as the words themselves.

Where it applies

  • public speaking
  • daily conversation
  • teaching

Putting it to work

  • practicing tone and delivery
  • speaking with integrity

Questions to consider

  • How does your tone affect how people hear you?
  • Can simple words be powerful?

Another view

Sometimes complex ideas require complex language to express accurately.

More from James Russell Lowell

  1. Who speaks the truth stabs Falsehood to the heart.

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  2. All thoughts that mould the age begin Deep down within the primitive soul.

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  3. Earth's noblest thing,-a woman perfected.

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