One favorite quote from from one great man
I was on Facebook this morning and saw another delightful quotation from one of my favorite writers and speakers of his day, Samuel Clemens. Sam was better known as Mark Twain ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Twain ) . His style of writing and speaking was the epitome of homespun cleverness: no minced words, demonstrating deft humor whilst being frank and engaging.
A a writer I appreciate tools and tips that come directly from the Masters of Literature, because their pithy comments invariably illuminate, inspire and enlighten as they entertain. The advice, like the works of the Masters, lives on, timelessly wise. And I like all that. I’ll bet you do, too.
(I’m also a bit too fond of commas. Sorry….)
Here’s what Sam had to say: “Substitute ‘damn’ every time you’re inclined to write ‘very;’ your editor will delete it and the writing will be just as it should be.”
Such a simple thing, but it makes such a difference. I’m sure there are a great many folks out there who will find this tidbit useful. I know I did. And if you’ve the chance, check out some of the lesser known works of Samuel Clemens here:
http://www.mtwain.com/l_shortstoryandessay.html
That’s damn good advice. I’m damn impressed, and feel damn glad that I was turned on to this damn useful piece of writing advice.
Yup, works great. Damn nice.
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Molly Burke on Purpose: Leading insurrections against mediocrity.
