On the Cryptic and the Elliptic
On the Cryptic and the Elliptic is a collection of essays by G.K. Chesterton that explores various aspects of language and literature, including the use of metaphor, symbolism, and irony. The book includes discussions on topics such as the role of poetry in society, the nature of humor, and the relationship between art and morality.
By G.K. Chesterton · First published 1905 · Genre: Essay, Satire, Non-fiction · 2,248 words
First lines
Surely the art of reporting speeches is in a strange state of degeneration. We should not object, perhaps, to the reporter's making the speeches much shorter than they are; but we do object to his making all the speeches much worse than they are. And the method which he employs is one which is dangerously unjust. When a statesman or philosopher makes an important speech, there are several courses which the reporter might take without being unreasonable. Perhaps the most reasonable course of all would be not to report the speech at all. Let the world live and love, marry and give in marriage, without that particular speech, as they did (in some desperate way) in the days when there were no newspapers. A second course would be to report a small part of it; but to get that right. A third course, far better if you can do it, is to understand the main purpose and argument of the speech, and report that in clear and logical language of your own.
What this Textopian page supports
On the Cryptic and the Elliptic is listed on Textopian as an essay by G.K. Chesterton, dated 1905 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: G.K. Chesterton
- Date: 1905 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Essay, Satire, Non-fiction, Philosophy, Criticism
- Length: 2,248 words
- Structure: 1 section, 18 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Essay — The work is a critical essay discussing the state of journalism and reporting, focusing on the methods and consequences of misrepresentation in media.
- Satire — The writing employs humor and irony to critique the practices of journalists and the absurdity of modern reporting techniques.
- Non-fiction — The text is a factual discourse on the topic of journalism, providing real-world examples and analysis.
- Philosophy — The work delves into philosophical reflections on truth, communication, and the role of media in society.
Tags
philosophy · mysticism · literature · essays · symbolism · interpretation · metaphor · moral · mystery · truth · existentialism · human nature