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About this quote

What does it mean?
To make fiction timeless, embed your lessons subtly rather than preaching them openly.
In plain terms
Teach lessons quietly in your story instead of lecturing.
What can you take from it?
Show, don't tell, in your writing.

Where it applies

  • writing
  • speeches
  • teaching

Putting it to work

  • use metaphors
  • avoid moralizing
  • let actions speak

Questions to consider

  • Is your story preachy?
  • How are you conveying the message?

Another view

Sometimes explicit messages are necessary for clarity.

More from Mark Twain

  1. Never let your schooling interfere with your education.

    Permalink to quote #138
  2. I can teach anybody how to get what they want out of life. The problem is I can't find anybody who can tell me what they want.

    Permalink to quote #140
  3. I am opposed to millionaires, but it would be dangerous to offer me the position.

    Permalink to quote #137

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