Dictionary.com says it's 'a terse saying embodying a general truth, or astute observation, as “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely” (Lord Acton).'
So basically, an aphorism is when you say something really deep without using a lot of words. It's also very quotable, which kinda takes away the 'original thought' idea of Wikipedia's definition. Aphorisms turn into cliches (a phrase which has been repeated so often, it loses its original meaning/effect) very easily.
Here are a few of my favorites:
I'd like to live as a poor man with lots of money. - Pablo Picasso
Forgive your enemies, but never forget their names. - JFK
The human race has improved everything but the human race. - Adlai Stevenson
Easy writings curse is hard reading. - Richard Brinsley Sheridan
Find more writing-related aphorisms at Huffington Post by clicking here, including this one:
I am a storyteller. If I'd wanted to send a message, I would have written a sermon. - Phillip Pullman
Do you agree or disagree with Mr. Pullman? Is it really possible not to write with a message? Share your thoughts - or your favorite aphorism - in the comments!
