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About this quote

What does it mean?
Writers fall into two types: those who cut and those who grind out substance. Most do both but lean one way.
In plain terms
Some writers cut, some grind; most are mixtures.
What can you take from it?
Know your writing type.

Where it applies

  • editing drafts
  • finding your voice
  • hiring editors

Putting it to work

  • pair different writers
  • match task to style
  • develop both skills

Questions to consider

  • Am I an incisor or grinder?
  • What kind of writing do I need?

Another view

Great writing often needs both.

More from Walter Bagehot

  1. Woman absent is woman dead.

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  2. Honor sinks where commerce long prevails.

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  3. What impresses men is not mind, but the result of mind.

    Permalink to quote #54

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