He delighted to tread upon the brink of meaning.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- He enjoyed exploring ideas that were just on the edge of being understood.
- In plain terms
- He liked playing with words and ideas that almost made sense.
- What can you take from it?
- Ambiguity can be a source of pleasure for the curious mind.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you prefer clarity or mystery?
- How much meaning is too little?
Another view
Too much ambiguity can confuse readers rather than delight them.
More from Samuel Johnson
Whoever wishes to attain an English style, familiar but not coarse, and elegant but not ostentatious, must give his days and nights to the volumes of Addison.
Permalink to quote #96 The Churchyard abounds with images which find a mirror in every mind, and with sentiments to which every bosom returns an echo.
Permalink to quote #98 New things are made familiar, and familiar things are made new.
Permalink to quote #95
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