It's all right, I want to say to the students who write to me, for things to be what they appear to be, and for words to mean what they say. It's all right, too, for words and appearances to mean more than one thing--ambiguity is a fact of life.
Eudora Welty's reflections on writing highlight the importance of honesty and clarity in communication. She reassures students that it's acceptable for things to appear as they are, and for words to convey their intended meanings. This reinforces the idea that authenticity is essential in writing, providing a foundation for effective expression.
Moreover, Welty acknowledges the complexity of language and the multifaceted nature of meaning. She embraces the inherent ambiguity of life, suggesting that words can hold multiple interpretations. This acknowledgment encourages writers to explore different layers of meaning, enriching their work while accepting that not everything is always straightforward.