Meaning: This quote is from Friedrich Nietzsche, a German philosopher, who wrote the quote in his work "Human, All Too Human." The quote is a reflection on the art of concise and meaningful communication in contrast to verbosity without substance. Nietzsche attributes the quote to Horace, an ancient Roman poet, although it is not clear which specific work of Horace it is from.

The quote is a commentary on the skill and artistry required for effective communication. It suggests that it is easy to express oneself briefly when there is something substantial to communicate, drawing an example from Tacitus, a Roman historian known for his concise and impactful writing style. Tacitus is celebrated for his ability to convey profound insights and historical accounts in a succinct manner.

Nietzsche contrasts this with the act of saying nothing of substance yet producing a lengthy text, effectively distorting the truth. This is referred to as an "achievement" in a sarcastic sense, implying that it is not a commendable accomplishment. The quote highlights the value of meaningful content and the detrimental impact of verbosity and falsehood, as well as the skill of concise expression.

Nietzsche, known for his philosophical critiques and aphoristic writing style, likely chose this quote to emphasize the importance of substance and authenticity in communication. In an age where information overload and superficial communication are prevalent, the quote serves as a reminder of the significance of conveying genuine and meaningful ideas.

Horace, the poet to whom Nietzsche attributes the quote, was a prominent figure in Roman literature. His works often explored themes of ethics, philosophy, and the art of living a good life. While the specific context of the quote within Horace's writings is not provided, it aligns with the broader themes of clarity, truth, and the art of expression that are prevalent in his poetry and essays.

The quote also resonates in the realm of literature and criticism, where the value of brevity and substance in writing is often emphasized. It serves as a caution against empty rhetoric and the manipulation of truth through excessive verbosity. In an age when attention spans are shortened and information is abundant, the quote encourages writers and speakers to prioritize meaningful content over mere volume.

In conclusion, Nietzsche's quote attributed to Horace serves as a timeless reflection on the art of communication and the significance of conveying meaningful truths concisely. It underscores the importance of substance and authenticity in expression, while cautioning against the pitfalls of verbosity and falsehood. The quote continues to resonate in contemporary discourse, reminding us of the enduring value of clarity and truth in communication.