“I have made this letter longer than usual, only because I have not had the time to make it shorter.”
- June 19, 1623 – August 19, 1662
- French
- Mathematician, Physicist, Inventor, Philosopher, Theologian
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Quote
“I have made this letter longer than usual, only because I have not had the time to make it shorter.”
Explanation
Pascal humorously and insightfully reveals the paradox that brevity requires more effort than length. While it may seem easier to write something concise, clarity and precision demand careful thought, organization, and revision. Writing at length is often the result of haste, while concise expression reflects discipline and deep understanding. The quote shows that true communication is not just about speaking or writing, but about respecting the listener or reader by refining one’s message.
This line, which appears in a 1657 letter from Pascal, has since become one of the most cited observations about the craft of writing. It reflects his broader approach in Pensées, where brevity and depth work hand in hand, distilling complex truths into compact, elegant forms. Pascal understood that intellectual rigor includes the ability to express oneself clearly and economically—a skill that is as rare as it is valuable.
In today’s world of emails, texts, and digital messaging, Pascal’s observation is more relevant than ever. People are inundated with information, and those who can express themselves with clarity and economy stand out. His quote reminds us that concise writing is not laziness, but a labor of respect and refinement—and that taking the time to say less often says far more.
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