It is no great art to say something briefly when, like Tacitus, one has something to say; when one has nothing to say, however, and none the less writes a whole book and makes truth into a liar -- that I call an achievement.

Summary

This quote by Friedrich Nietzsche criticizes the act of creating lengthy works without substantial content. Nietzsche suggests that it is easy and unimpressive to convey ideas in a concise manner when there is worthwhile substance to be shared, as demonstrated by Tacitus, a renowned Roman historian. In contrast, Nietzsche considers it a true skill or achievement when an individual manages to write an entire book even if it lacks meaningful content, consequently distorting or ignoring the truth. This quote highlights Nietzsche's disdain for superficiality and the value he places on intellectual integrity and substance in literary works.