Culture | Johnson

In favour of simple writing

There is mounting evidence on why short and sharp is best

Measuring tape sprouting from a traditional typewriter.
Image: Nick Lowndes

DO YOU EDIT text messages carefully before sending them? If so, you may be the kind of person who takes pride in crafting even the simplest message. If you do not, you may see yourself as a go-getter for whom verve and speed outrank care: get it done decently now rather than perfectly later.

This article appeared in the Culture section of the print edition under the headline “How to write well”

From the September 30th 2023 edition

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