Quote by Mark Twain
I notice that you use plain, simple language, short words and brief sentences. That is the way to write English - it is the modern way and the best way. Stick to it; don't let fluff and flowers and verbosity creep in. When you catch an adjective, kill it. No, I don't mean utterly, but kill most of them - then the rest will be valuable. They weaken when they are close together. They give strength when they are wide apart. An adjective habit, or a wordy, diffuse, flowery habit, once fastened upon a person, is as hard to get rid of as any other vice.
Summary
This quote emphasizes the value of using clear and concise language in writing. The author advises against incorporating unnecessary adjectives and verbosity, urging writers to opt for plain and simple words and brief sentences. They suggest that a surplus of adjectives can weaken the impact of a text, while selecting and spacing them appropriately can enhance its power. The quote also suggests that habits of using excessive language are difficult to break, comparing them to vices. Ultimately, the quote promotes a modern and effective approach to writing that prioritizes clarity and avoids unnecessary embellishments.
By Mark Twain
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