literature, which are referenced to by others. Usually, quotations
are written within quotation marks, as a verbum dicendi, to indicate
that it was an expression given by a particular person. Nowadays,
quotations are usually referenced from sources such as literature,
speeches, movie dialogues, interviews or even song lyrics.
Where are quotations used?
Quotations are used for many reasons. In the scientific arena,
quotations are utilized to indicate a previous study that was
conducted by another researcher, in which it is currently being
referenced to. In the media, quotations are used to report on what
has been said by politicians, scientists, entertainers as well as
business people. Over in modern literature, ideas and thoughts are
reinforced through the used of quotations that are revered to or
regarded as respected. Certain quotations contain universal truths,
which are elaborated to support a point to be made. These are also
sometimes known as maxims.
Apart from that, there are also beautiful quotations which are
thought to be artistic expressions of a certain language form.
Sometimes these expressions can be found in poetry or old
literature. Furthermore, some quotations are just used because they
remind the writer of a memorable piece of work or movie.
Proper credit to the originator
It is of ultimate importance to include the name of the person whom
the quotation originated from, after the statement of the quotation.
This is in order to give proper credit to the person who first
thought of that particular quote, and whom has given it the meaning
that it has today. Sometimes quotations are used to even reflect the
personality of the original author, either to show great wisdom,
great creativity and sometimes even great foolishness!
Reflection of culture
Quotations may even come in the form of proverbs, which is born out
of the culture and history of a people or nation. Usually, these
proverbs are hundreds or even thousands of years old which have been
preserved till the modern age today. The Bible is one important
source of quotation which has withstood the test of time and
therefore is one of the most widely source of quotes for the past
hundreds or even thousands of years.
Misuse in the art of quotations
In certain cases, especially over the course of the development of
literature, quotations used may have been criticized to lack
substance or originality. This is because sometimes quotations of
unknown origin are utilized and therefore the author of the material
is deemed to have used a quote that lacked strong proof of support.
Apart from that, written material that contains too many quotations
may seem to lack originality as it may be packed with borrowed
ideas. In this sense, quotations should then be used with tack and
good judgment, so as not to bring down the standards of publication.
Most of the time, whenever quotations are used with good sense,
through the adding of value and meaning to certain issues, the power
of the message that is being conveyed will then be amplified and
brought to life. This then becomes the ultimate value of quotations
which is rightfully used to bring impact to the written word. For
extensive resources on inspirational quotations visit
www.quotedb.com