In Richard Russo's "Bridge of Sighs," a keen observation is presented regarding the phrase "I have to say." This expression is often used just before a statement that, while possibly intriguing, is typically unnecessary to vocalize. It highlights a common tendency where individuals feel compelled to preface their thoughts, rather than simply expressing them straightforwardly.

This phenomenon reveals much about communication habits and social politeness. People often feel an obligation to provide qualifiers for their opinions or observations, which can lead to superfluous dialogue. Russo’s insight encourages readers to reflect on the ways in which we structure our conversations and the underlying complexities of stating what we truly mean.