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About this quote

What does it mean?
A witty twist on a famous saying, suggesting writing is not only more powerful but also simpler and less physically demanding than fighting.
In plain terms
Writing is powerful and much easier than using a weapon.
What can you take from it?
Simplicity can be as effective as force.

Where it applies

  • debates
  • historical comparisons
  • humorous observations

Putting it to work

  • highlighting ease of communication
  • mocking violence
  • comparing tools

Questions to consider

  • Is ease a measure of value?
  • How does simplicity affect power?

Another view

It downplays the real risks and effort involved in writing effectively.

More from Marty Feldman

  1. I carry Keaton's photo around with me to remind me what happened to him. If the Hollywood system can destroy him it can destroy me.

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  2. I won't eat anything that has intelligent life, but I'd gladly eat a network executive or a politician. [2]

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  3. I feel about Keaton the way an organist thinks of Bach.

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