The aphorism is probably the most accessible literary form ever invented. Anyone can write them, and everyone has a clutch of favorites. Among the aphorisms sent to me recently, my favorites are somewhat pastoral, including this one sent by Lyn, by an unknown author:
Life is easier when you plow around the stump
and this from Debra, whose grandfather used to say this while teaching her father how to cut wood:
Let the saw do the work.
Composing and sharing aphorisms is a popular pasttime. Art Carey, a columnist for the Philadelphia Inquirer, is a collector of sayings and recently published a column that contained lots of words of wisdom from his readers. Cape Cod Times staff reporter and syndicated columnist Sean Gonsalves did the same in one of his recent articles. He kindly references my book, but also stresses a point that I think is crucial: aphorisms are as much about doing as about reading. So check out these pieces—and start composing your own!
Dear James, I heard the programme ‘word of mouth’ which was enlightening. I have been writing aphorisms since 1982 published as ‘The Way It Is’ in 8 editions. One edition is on line at Robert @1liners.com. Would you like to use some for your collection of aphorisms? At the moment my email is not working but I would appreciate it if you write to me : 4 Carlos Place Mayfair London W1K 3AW Tel 0207 584 7536
Many Thanks Robert Dangoor
Pastoral:
We may not be able to eat scenery, but after too long in the city, we sure can drink it in