Comments on: On Writing Clearly

By: Bia

Bia — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 08:50:30 +0000

is a great poster, I always love to read what you encreve, on my site has also ums content and some news interesting. hugs, http://sensuaisegatas.blogspot.com

By: Shannon Bowen-Kelsick (sbk)

Shannon Bowen-Kelsick (sbk) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 16:17:52 +0000

Found your post through Mitch, very nice indeed.

I am not a big fan of rules, but Orwell’s rules are now my new favorite.

Thanks

By: Roy Lee

Roy Lee — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 16:07:53 +0000

Rule number 7: Check spelling

By: Mitch Joel - Twist Image

Mitch Joel - Twist Image — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 14:00:51 +0000

I never get tired of reading (and re-reading) those writing rules from Orwell. Please do keep on re-posting them.

By: Tweets that mention On Writing Clearly : Hugh McGuire -- Topsy.com

Tweets that mention On Writing Clearly : Hugh McGuire -- Topsy.com — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 13:43:25 +0000

[…] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Mitch Joel, Donna Papacosta and Naila Jinnah, Alina Kulesh. Alina Kulesh said: RT: @mitchjoel If you're gonna write (and you better be), you should do it clearly. Beautiful rules via @hughmcguire: http://bit.ly/ckJ8qE […]

By: Alexandre

Alexandre — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 07:24:00 +0000

Thanks for the ping! I sincerely appreciate, especially since this conversation occurred a little while ago and I didn’t necessarily expect it to find its way here. You’re description of my position, in that conversation, is quite accurate. Really, much appreciated.
While my position hasn’t changed much, in the meantime, my approach probably has, for several reasons. As you surely realize, it’s never been about clarity being a negative value. But it was a reminder that “unclear language” may also be valuable, in some contexts. “Flowery language,” for instance, may be valued in some artistic contexts. And obscure language is valued by those who value secrecy. Besides, clear writing is obviously difficult and there are so many opportunities for inaccurate interpretation that it’s a wonder when people actually understand one another.

Come to think of it, part of the reason my approach has changed is thanks to you: you showed me that these arguments were well-understood (by you, at least), so they don’t need to be overstated.
Don’t want to preempt your post or talk about myself so much. Just wanted to thank you for your kind help. It goes a long way.