To write or even speak English is not a science but an art. There are no reliable words. Whoever writes English is involved in a struggle that never lets up even for a sentence. He is struggling against vagueness, against obscurity, against the lure of the decorative adjective, against the encroachment of Latin and Greek, and, above all, against the worn-out phrases and dead metaphors with which the language is cluttered up.

Summary

This quote emphasizes that writing and speaking English is more of an art form rather than a formulaic science. It suggests that there is no set rule for using words effectively. The speaker highlights the ongoing struggle writers face in their attempts to combat vagueness, obscurity, and the temptation to use unnecessary adjectives. They also mention the challenge of resisting the influence of Latin and Greek languages on English, as well as the need to break free from clichés and overused metaphors. Overall, the quote emphasizes the continuous effort required to maintain the clarity and creativity of the English language.

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