One, who thinks clearly, relates clearly

The above phrase is a Russian saying usually given by school teachers to students inquiring why they must learn how to write well. Learning how to write well does train one to think clearly. (Usually.)

The problem with most cases of bad writing is not confusion but cognitive dissonance. It’s not that what is written is unclear to you, but that your mind “trips” over an ugly expression or bad grammar. It’s like eating soup which has a slightly weird taste. Yes, you get the nutrients in, but because of that one little thing that’s off, you get no enjoyment. (Of course, this is all happening on Shabbos, which is the only time a frum Jew enjoys his food.)

And by the way, if your mind does not trip, it just means you have bad taste.

Anyway, what brought this on, you ask? This story from a Ch.info article:

Legend has it that the late Albert Einstein, having just completed a paper and in need of a clasp, spent a considerable amount of time trying to straighten-out a clip that was twisted and unusable. While struggling with the dysfunctional object, his assistant discovered a new box of perfect clips. Einstein took one of the new paper clips reshaped it and used it as an instrument to repair the old bent one.

In response to his assistant’s bewilderment, the renowned physicist declared: “I had just established a new objective; once set upon a goal I’m not easily deflected.”

Who was struggling? Einstein or the assistant? Also, doesn’t “late” here mean that Einstein was dead while doing all this?

And yes, cute story.

Good Shabbos.