This week I offer some different types of quotes that have more to do with writing and clarity, important to all writers. Still, some of these could also apply to speaking as well. The sources are varied as are their backgrounds and some are better known than others.

Nevertheless, take heed, take heart, and take a read . . . Enjoy, learn and then act accordingly. But, it’s Friday, so have Fun!

A sentence should never be cruel and unusual.— William Burton, Esq.

I have made this letter longer than usual because I lack the time to make it shorter.— Blaise Pascal, mathematician

Clarity begins at home.— Edie Schwager, speaker with the American Medical Writers Association

The trouble with so many of us is that we underestimate the power of simplicity.— Robert Stuberg, author and speaker

I never write ‘metropolis’ for seven cents when I can write ‘city’ and get paid the same.— Mark Twain, author

When writing about science, don’t simplify the science; simplify the writing.— Julie Ann Miller, former editor of Science News 

This report, by its very length, defends itself against the risk of being read.— Winston Churchill, former British prime minister

If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that.— Stephen King, author

All good writing begins with terrible first efforts. You need to start somewhere.— Anne Lamott, author

Good writing is clear thinking made visible.— William Wheeler, journalist and author

Easy reading is damn hard writing.— Nathaniel Hawthorne, author

No compulsion in the world is stronger than the urge to edit someone else’s document.— H. G. Wells, author

So which one or ones resonate with you? Drop me a line and let me know why.