The indicative, in its most primitive use, makes a simple, absolute assertion, or asks a question which includes or concerns such an assertion. e.g. Γράφει, he is writing; ἔγραφεν, he was writing; ἔγραψεν, he wrote; γράψει, he will write. Γράφει;, is he writing? ἐγράψατε;, did you write? γράψετε;, will you write? τί ἔγραψεν;, what did he write? 3. The indicative may also express (a) • A dependent statement (or quotation) of such an absolute assertion or question. e.g., Λέγει ὅτι