Be obscure clearly.

In this quote, E. B. White offers a paradoxical piece of advice: "Be obscure clearly." The phrase combines two seemingly contradictory ideas—being obscure (unclear or difficult to understand) while being clear (easy to grasp). What White seems to be suggesting is that while obscurity can sometimes be inevitable or necessary in writing or communication, it should not come at the expense of clarity. In other words, even if your message or work is complex or layered, it should still be presented in a way that is intelligible and precise.

The quote also reflects White's emphasis on the importance of language and communication. As a renowned writer and editor, White believed in the power of concise and elegant writing, which often involved making difficult or abstract ideas more accessible to readers. His suggestion to "be obscure clearly" could be interpreted as a reminder to avoid pretentiousness or overly complicated language. Even when dealing with complex ideas, one should strive to express them in a manner that doesn't lose the audience's understanding or interest.

The origin of this quote comes from E. B. White, a celebrated American writer known for works like Charlotte's Web and The Elements of Style. White, along with his collaborator William Strunk Jr., was a champion of clear, straightforward writing that avoided unnecessary complexity. His advice about being "obscure clearly" reflects his broader philosophy about writing—acknowledging that complexity and depth can coexist with clarity and simplicity when executed well. This quote embodies his careful approach to communication, making it a valuable lesson for writers and communicators of all kinds.