Meaning: This quote by Edward Gibbon, the renowned historian, provides insight into his writing process and his approach to crafting paragraphs. Let's break down the quote to better understand its significance.

"It has always been my practice to cast a long paragraph in a single mould, to try it by my ear, to deposit it in my memory, but to suspend the action of the pen till I had given the last polish to my work."

In this quote, Gibbon describes his method of composing long paragraphs. The phrase "cast a long paragraph in a single mould" suggests that he prefers to construct a cohesive and comprehensive paragraph as a unified whole, rather than piecing it together bit by bit. This approach indicates a commitment to conceptualizing and structuring his ideas before committing them to writing, reflecting a deliberate and thoughtful process of composition.

The subsequent phrase "to try it by my ear" suggests that Gibbon relied on his sense of rhythm and cadence in language to evaluate the effectiveness of his writing. This emphasizes the importance of oral tradition and the spoken word in shaping his prose, indicating a desire for his writing to resonate with readers on a visceral level. Gibbon's emphasis on the auditory quality of his writing highlights the significance of language as a medium of communication and expression.

The phrase "to deposit it in my memory" suggests that Gibbon would internalize his composed paragraphs, perhaps committing them to memory before transcribing them onto paper. This approach reflects a deep engagement with his own writing, as well as a commitment to ensuring the coherence and effectiveness of his prose before finalizing it. By holding his paragraphs in his memory, Gibbon likely sought to refine and perfect them before setting them down in their final form.

Finally, the quote concludes with "but to suspend the action of the pen till I had given the last polish to my work," indicating that Gibbon would refrain from immediately transcribing his thoughts onto paper. Instead, he would withhold the physical act of writing until he had meticulously refined and polished his work. This deliberate approach to writing underscores Gibbon's commitment to precision and excellence, as well as his recognition of the importance of revision and refinement in producing high-quality prose.

In essence, this quote offers valuable insights into Gibbon's meticulous and deliberate approach to writing. His emphasis on crafting paragraphs as cohesive entities, evaluating them through auditory means, internalizing them in memory, and refining them before putting pen to paper all point to a methodical and disciplined process of composition. Gibbon's approach serves as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship involved in the creation of compelling and impactful prose.

Overall, this quote from Edward Gibbon sheds light on the thoughtfulness and care with which he approached the composition of his prose, offering valuable lessons for writers and historians alike. His emphasis on precision, refinement, and the oral dimension of language provides a rich perspective on the art of writing and the dedication required to produce enduring literary works. Gibbon's methodical approach to paragraph construction and his commitment to perfecting his writing before transcribing it exemplify the conscientiousness and artistry that underlie his contributions to the field of history and literature.