Ten writers for children. All with something to say.

3/10/11

Carmen "T"'s Favorite Quote

Each chapter of Susan Fletcher's Shadow Spinner begins with "Lessons for Life and Storytelling." This is among my most favorite lessons in the book:

"In the old tales, there is power in words. Words are what you use to summon a jinn, or to open an enchanted door, or to cast a spell. You can do everything else perfectly, but if don't say the right words, it won't work.

"If you know how to use words, you don't have to be strong enough to wield a scimitar or have armies at your command.

"Words are how the powerless can have power."


Susan Fletcher's newest book, Ancient, Strange, and Lovely, is part of her dragon chronicles.

4 comments:

Christy said...

Wonderful! This is encouraging for all readers and writers.

Edie Hemingway said...

Oh yes, words definitely have power. Thank you, Carmen, for this quote.

David LaRochelle said...

Beautiful! Words (and books) are indeed powerful.

Mark said...

"The right words" part of this quote reminds me of the Twain quote Stephanie shared, both of which remind us the power of language. Thanks for sharing this, Carmen.