Meaning: The quote "I always have a quotation for everything - it saves original thinking" by Dorothy Sayers, an English crime writer, essayist, and playwright, offers an interesting perspective on the role of quotations in our lives. This quote suggests that relying on quotations can save one from the effort of original thinking. It can be interpreted as a humorous take on the human tendency to rely on the words of others rather than engaging in independent thought.

Dorothy Sayers, best known for her detective fiction featuring the character Lord Peter Wimsey, was a prolific writer who often expressed her thoughts on various aspects of literature, writing, and creativity. This quote, in particular, reflects her wit and insight into the human mind.

On one level, the quote may seem to diminish the value of original thinking by implying that it can be replaced by quoting others. However, it can also be seen as a lighthearted acknowledgment of the human tendency to draw inspiration and wisdom from the words of others. Quotations, after all, often encapsulate profound insights and experiences in a succinct and memorable form, making them valuable tools for communication and reflection.

In the context of writing and communication, quotations can serve as powerful devices for expressing complex ideas in a concise and impactful manner. They can lend authority and depth to one's arguments, drawing on the wisdom and knowledge of those who have come before. In this sense, Sayers' quote may be seen as a playful nod to the effectiveness of quotations in bolstering one's own writing and expression.

Furthermore, the quote raises questions about the nature of originality and creativity. While it may be tempting to rely on the words of others, true creativity and original thinking require the courage to explore new ideas and perspectives. Quotations can certainly enrich and support one's own thoughts, but they should not serve as a substitute for genuine creativity and innovation.

From a practical standpoint, the use of quotations can also be a time-saving and efficient way to support an argument or illustrate a point. Rather than laboring over how to articulate a particular concept, one can draw from the vast pool of human knowledge and wisdom encapsulated in quotations.

It's worth noting that the playful tone of Sayers' quote suggests that it should not be taken too seriously. While quotations can undoubtedly enrich our writing and thinking, they should not be seen as a panacea for originality or a substitute for genuine thought and reflection.

In conclusion, Dorothy Sayers' quote "I always have a quotation for everything - it saves original thinking" offers a thought-provoking perspective on the role of quotations in our lives. While it may be seen as a humorous take on the human tendency to rely on the words of others, it also highlights the value of quotations as tools for communication, expression, and support for one's own ideas. Ultimately, while quotations can be valuable resources, they should not replace the necessity for genuine original thinking and creativity.