Comment by sixstringtheory

The genius of this approach is that each reader will fill in the blank of what the statement could be, and therefore the story is more relatable to a more widely diverse audience. If it was made explicit, it would only resonate with the people who agree it is a scissor.

Consider this quote: “Books are mirrors. You only see in them what you already have inside of you.” -Carlos Zafon. This isn't the quote I was actually searching for but I think gets the sentiment across: a blank mirror lets you see yourself much more clearly than the Mona Lisa.

This type of rhetorical device is constantly used by politicians. Donald Trump frequently says things like "you know what they're saying about..." without ever actually saying what is being said. Then the audience fills in the blank with their preconceived notions and boom: what he said is right in _all_ of their minds.