Ernest Hemingway, famous for his terse narratives, was discussing writing with an acquaintance.
His interlocutor complimented the author on his literary style, but remarked that sometimes it could use a little more detail.
Hemingway responded, saying that he thought his prose could be tightened and refined even further, with some of the excess verbiage being cut out.
This brought a rejoinder from the other man, who expressed doubt at the veracity of that statement.
Hemingway shot back, “I’ll prove it.”
“How?”
“I’ll bet you I can write an entire story in less than twelve words.”
A bet over who was to pay for the evening’s libations was made.
Said Hemingway: “For Sale. Pair of baby shoes. Never been worn.”