I started the first drafts of the book during my sophomore…
““I started the first drafts of the book during my sophomore year of college. I wasn’t thinking at all about kids at the time. But I was thinking. A lot. About everything. I wish I could capture that head-space again; everything meant something to me in college. Every leaf, every sound, every lecture, every textbook. It’s like I was on drugs, 24/7. I am glad I was able to pair that ceaseless pondering with plenty of time to write. What came of that time was the first draft of the novel, a lengthy, unnecessarily angst-driven pile of crap. Years later, with Zoloft, I approached the novel with a more level head, and came away with a much, much better novel. My advice to writers, I suppose, is write your novel when you feel like shit; edit when you feel great.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Early intense focus produced a raw draft; later, with medication, refined it, showing that writing thrives on both passion and mental health.
In simple terms: Passion and mental health both shape writing.
Key Takeaway
Balance intense focus with mental health care.
Themes
writing
mental health
creative process
Mood
introspective
practical
Type
Books:1
Sophomore year:1
Time:1
Writing:1
Draft Novel:1
Zoloft:1
Later Zoloft:1
Started Drafts:1
Drafts Book:1
When to use this quote
- author workshops
- therapy
- self‑care routines
Key Concepts
college life
drug effects
editing cycles
Questions to Reflect On
- When do you feel most creative?
- How does mental health affect your work?
A Different Perspective
Medication isn’t a cure‑all; process varies.