Good writing has several things in common with good science. One commonality is a quest for simplicity. Einstein said of science:
“The real goal of my research has always been the simplification and unification of the system of theoretical physics.”
“Our experience hitherto justifies us in believing that nature is the realization of the simplest conceivable mathematical ideas.”
“Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.”
A. Lincoln’s Gettysburg address exemplifies the value of a quest for simplicity in writing. Abe’s address was one of two delivered at the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery in Gettysburg, PA on Thursday afternoon, 11-19-1863. Harvard University’s president, E. Everett (former Senator, Secretary of State, and Massachusetts Governor), was the keynote speaker. He was so chosen because he widely was regarded as the nation's greatest orator.
Everett spoke for two hours (13,607 words). Lincoln’s 272-word Gettysburg address took two to three minutes. Whereas Everett’s long oration is virtually forgotten, Lincoln’s brief Gettysburg address is regarded as one of the greatest speeches in American history. Lincoln began by deciding what he wanted to say; then he sought simplicity of expression. Those two elements (content and simplicity of expression) combined to produce a masterpiece.
Teaching students to seek simplicity in writing is efficient, for they learn a mode of thought that also will help them in science. Nearly everyone writes verbosely, thereby wasting resources, including the reader’s time, and as Edison said, “Time is really the only capital that any human being has, and the one thing that he can't afford to lose.” For multiple reasons, writers should seek simplicity of expression. My book A Thinker’s Guide To Effective Writing, provides excellent guidance toward that end.