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I think a good writer is a mix of confidence (sure that…

“I think a good writer is a mix of confidence (sure that what they're writing is going to appeal to their readers) and uncertainty (what if all these words are crap?). If you're too confident, you get an attitude that seeps through into your writing, affecting the characters and the story. If…” quote by Charles de Lint
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“I think a good writer is a mix of confidence (sure that what they're writing is going to appeal to their readers) and uncertainty (what if all these words are crap?). If you're too confident, you get an attitude that seeps through into your writing, affecting the characters and the story. If you're too uncertain, you'll never finish anything.”

Charles de Lint

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Describes the writer’s need for both confidence in appeal and uncertainty about quality, warning that extremes hinder productivity.

In simple terms: Writers need confidence but not overconfidence, and doubt but not paralysis.

Key Takeaway

Find balanced confidence to write.

Themes

writing confidence self-doubt

Mood

introspective practical

Type

advice reflective

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • blogging
  • screenwriting

Key Concepts

creative process authorial voice

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you manage self-doubt?
  • When does confidence become arrogance?
A Different Perspective

Too much doubt can stall projects.

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