Clear writers, like fountains, do not seem so deep as they are; the turbid look the most profound

Clear writers, like fountains, do not seem so deep as they are; the turbid look the most profound

Walter Savage Landor was a renowned English writer and poet known for his clear and concise writing style. His works often reflected his deep understanding of human nature and his keen observations of society. Landor believed that clear writers, like fountains, do not seem as deep as they are, while the turbid ones appear to be the most profound.

In Landor's view, clear writers are like fountains because they are transparent and easy to understand. Their words flow smoothly and effortlessly, providing the reader with a clear and concise message. However, just like a fountain may appear shallow on the surface, clear writers may not always reveal the full depth of their thoughts and ideas at first glance. It is only upon closer examination that the true depth and complexity of their writing becomes apparent.

On the other hand, Landor believed that turbid writers, those whose writing is unclear and difficult to decipher, often appear to be the most profound. Their words may be murky and convoluted, requiring the reader to wade through layers of complexity to uncover the true meaning behind their writing. While turbid writers may seem deep and profound on the surface, their lack of clarity can often obscure the true depth of their thoughts and ideas.

Landor's own writing exemplified the qualities of a clear writer. His prose was elegant and straightforward, with a clarity that allowed his ideas to shine through without unnecessary embellishment. Despite the simplicity of his writing style, Landor's works were filled with profound insights and observations that continue to resonate with readers today.