“Whatever is well conceived is clearly said, and the words to say it flow with ease.”
— Nicolas Boileau-Despréaux · 1636 – 1711Source: L’Art poétique, 1674 · Check the source
Verified attributionWhat we know
- What is documented
- The line appears in L’Art poétique (1674) and is reliably attributed to Nicolas Boileau‑Despréaux.
Understanding the quote
Boileau’s line states a simple writing truth: clear thinking produces clear expression. It insists that precision of idea, not decorative language, makes writing intelligible. The couplet appears in L’Art poétique (1674).
In the original · French
Ce que l'on conçoit bien s'énonce clairement, et les mots pour le dire arrivent aisément.
The story behind it
Beyond theory, Boileau shaped taste at Louis XIV’s court: his critiques and satires made him a powerful literary judge.
Going further
- The era
- In 1674, during French classicism, L’Art poétique set out rules for measured, orderly poetic composition.
- The thinking
- Classicism prized order, balance and restraint. In practice it means plan your idea carefully, then write without excess.
- Key word
- Clarity of conception: clear understanding of an idea that makes expression natural.
- Who quoted it
- Quoted across classrooms and style guides, it’s a staple in journalism and writing instruction.
Three challenges to live it
In the app, you pick the one that fits your day, and in the evening you say how it went.
Write for 15 minutes a single paragraph (120–160 words) explaining one complex idea you know well; prioritize clarity over flourish.
Boileau says clear thought leads to clear speech. Timed focused writing forces you to organize thought before ornament.
Create a 10‑minute outline: pinpoint the central idea and three supporting points for a talk or text you're preparing.
Boileau values order: structuring first prevents unnecessary ornament and clarifies the message before phrasing.
Turn a single idea into two distinct sentences: first state it plainly, then follow with a concise image that illustrates it.
Boileau reminds us clarity must come before style. This practice contrasts plain statement with measured imagery to find linguistic economy.
How would clearer thinking change how you write or speak?
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