SUBMIT A TRUISM

TRUISMS (1977–79)



The Truisms, comprising over 250 single-sentence declarations, were written to resemble existing aphorisms, maxims, and clichés. The series was influenced by the reading list provided by Ron Clark at the Whitney Independent Study Program, where Holzer studied in 1977. Each sentence distills difficult and contentious ideas into a seemingly straightforward statement of fact. Privileging no single viewpoint, the Truisms examine the social construction of beliefs, mores, and truths. A ranged in alphabetical order, they were first shown on anonymous street posters pasted throughout downtown Manhattan, and they have since appeared on T-shirts, hats, electronic signs, stone floors, and benches.

Via the survey below, we invite you to take a closer look at a text you might be reading, a poem you hold close to your heart, a phrase that has influenced who you are, and submit your own truism.

You can also share your experience using the YOU BE MY ALLY app in your own space and share how you used one of the 29 selected texts.

NOTE: Truisms should be no longer than 10 words.