Speech and prose are not the same thing. They have different wave-lengths, for speech moves at the speed of light, where prose moves at the speed of the alphabet, and must be consecutive and grammatical and word-perfect. Prose cannot gesticulate. Speech can sometimes do nothing else.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Spoken language is fluid and immediate, while written prose is structured and sequential.
- In plain terms
- Speech flows quickly and naturally, but writing must follow strict rules.
- What can you take from it?
- Writing requires careful structure unlike spontaneous speech.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does your writing differ from your speech?
- Should writing mimic speech?
Another view
Modern digital text often blends speech and prose styles.
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