The Art of Saying Just Enough
Striking a balance between conciseness and clarity is the hallmark of effective communication.
“Brevity is power. But sometimes, a little extra context goes a long way. Balance is the real art."
— Navnit J Krishna on a X Post in reply to a Paul Graham X Post (24-03-2025)
Summary:
The quote acknowledges the strength of brevity but reminds us that context enriches understanding—true mastery lies in knowing when to be brief and when to elaborate. Something I am always grappling with here.
Explanation:
In our age of fast-paced communication—tweets, headlines, soundbites—brevity often reigns supreme. The ability to distil a thought into a few sharp words is highly valued; it captures attention, simplifies complexity, and travels quickly. That’s the “power” Navnit J Krishna refers to—concise messaging can hit hard and resonate widely.
However, the quote pivots with a thoughtful caveat: “But sometimes, a little extra context goes a long way.” This is a crucial insight, especially in nuanced discussions. While brevity may spark interest, it can also strip away important layers. Without sufficient context, a message risks being misinterpreted, oversimplified, or even weaponised. In the worst cases, it leaves readers with more questions than answers.
The final line—“Balance is the real art”—brings the idea home. It isn’t about choosing one approach over the other, but about mastering the delicate judgement call between being concise and being comprehensive. This is a skill particularly relevant for writers, educators, leaders, and anyone tasked with conveying ideas to varied audiences. The real challenge—and artistry—is in delivering just enough: enough to be clear, compelling, and truthful, without burdening or overwhelming.
This is especially resonant in the digital sphere, where the tension between signal and noise is constant. A perfectly worded tweet, a succinct yet rich email, or a speech that gives just enough to inspire without losing focus—these are the marks of communicative finesse.
Another post on this topic to follow shortly .. here it is. I think I have said too much!
About the Author:
Navnit J Krishna is a writer, strategist, and thinker known for his presence on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where he shares reflections on communication, design, culture, and technology. His style often bridges clarity with introspection, favouring succinct observations that provoke deeper thought. This quote encapsulates his ongoing engagement with the nuances of how we share and receive ideas in modern discourse—particularly relevant in a world flooded with messages, but often starved of meaning.