5 ms·
> "There are few if any passages in the works of Sir Thomas Browne that I do not find thoroughly delightful" The opening sentence is a perfect example of how t
by fumblebee 4y ago
> "There are few if any passages in the works of Sir Thomas Browne that I do not find thoroughly delightful"
The opening sentence is a perfect example of how to write English... if you want it to lack clarity. Double negatives like this leave the reader having to spend time working out the positive meaning of the sentence.
- Slow_Dog 4y agoOne seeks to find a clear and beautiful double-negative-free rendition of the same sentence, written by thy own fair hand. Alas, one seeks in vain, as the critic fails this test of courage.
- eternalban 4y agoTo wish all Readers of your abilities, were unreasonably to multiply the number of Scholars beyond the temper of these times. But unto this ill-judging age, we charitably desire a portion of your equity, judgement, candour, and ingenuity; wherein you are so rich, as not to lose by diffusion. And being a flourishing branch of that Noble Family, unto which we owe so much observance, you are not new set, but long rooted in such perfections; whereof having had so lasting confirmation in your worthy conversation, constant amity, and expression; and knowing you such a serious Student in the highest arcana’s of [Writing]; with much excuse we bring these low delights, and poor maniples to your Treasure. - Sir Thomas Browne [Edited] source: https://penelope.uchicago.edu/index.shtml https://penelope.uchicago.edu/index.shtml
- uiri 4y ago"I find most, if not all, passages in the works of Sir Thomas Browne to be thoroughly delightful." It's not hard to address double negatives.