. “The Elements of Style,” hailed by many as “the most important and timeless book on writing,” argues that good writing rests on three principles: purity, perspicuity, and precision. George Orwell (June 25, 1903–January 21, 1950) echoed this belief. In his altogether indispensable “Politics and the English Language,” he writes: “Political language — and with … Read more
The best literary works often arise from an author’s personal tragedy. Such is “A Grief Observed,” a book that shows how loss can unravel your entire life. C. S. Lewis (November 29, 1898– November 22, 1963) wrote it after losing his wife, Joy Davidman, to cancer. At the time of her death, they had been … Read more
“Is love real?” asks Jonny Lee Miller’s character in the fourth episode of the third season of “Elementary” that revolves around a groundbreaking artificial intelligence software program. “I don’t understand the question. Could I have more information?” Bella AI answers. “Love, surely, is a human construct, a hedge against the terror of mortality. I believe … Read more
Dr. Mardy’s website is a quote lover’s paradise. It serves as a constant source of inspiration for my writing practice. I first learned about it when I bought his book “I Never Metaphor I Didn’t Like,” and since then I’ve become a lifelong fan of his work. Here’s one of my favorite quotes from his … Read more