less is more vs being polite

Simplicity is widely associated with reduction. In fact, in his book the Laws of Simplicity, John Maeda states the first law as being Reduce.

However, there comes a point where you have to stop reducing.

This is the same with emails, blog posts, newspaper articles, computer programs, and probably anything.

Take emails.

Compare:

The widget - where is it?

To:

David, Where's the widget? Thanks.

As you can see, there's very little difference in length, but the whole tone is different, and I know I'd be more inclined to reply swiftly to the latter rather than the former.

If you're going to send an email, be brief, but don't forget to be polite.