“The shortest answer is doing the thing.”
- July 21, 1899 – July 2, 1961
- American
- Novelist, poet, journalist
- Wrote masterpieces such as “The Old Man and the Sea,” “A Farewell to Arms,” and “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” and won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954
Quote
“The shortest answer is doing the thing.”
Explanation
In this quote, Hemingway emphasizes the simplicity and directness of action as the most effective response to any situation. Instead of relying on long explanations, justifications, or words, the shortest and most powerful answer is simply to act—to do the thing that is required or needed. Hemingway’s view aligns with his broader philosophy of action-oriented living, where instead of getting caught up in overthinking or talking endlessly about an issue, the most effective approach is often to take immediate action. This perspective values doing over saying, suggesting that true understanding or resolution comes not from words but from real-world effort.
Hemingway’s characters often embody this principle. In works like A Farewell to Arms or For Whom the Bell Tolls, the characters are faced with complex moral dilemmas or life-threatening situations, but their solutions often come through decisive action rather than intellectual debate. This “doing” is portrayed as a form of authenticity and integrity—a way of confronting reality head-on without getting lost in unnecessary rhetoric. For Hemingway, action is the most honest and direct response to life’s challenges.
In the modern context, this quote speaks to a world where many are often overwhelmed by analysis, discussions, and overthinking. It encourages a pragmatic approach, where the focus is on results and practical steps rather than endless words. In a society increasingly dominated by digital communication and debate, Hemingway’s reminder to simply do what is necessary is a call to focus on practicality, execution, and purposeful action. Whether in personal goals, business endeavors, or social change, the quote encourages us to act decisively and not let words become a barrier to meaningful progress.
