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I tend to write things seven times before I show them to…

“I tend to write things seven times before I show them to my editor. I write them seven times, then I take them on tour, read them like a dozen times on tour, then go back to the room and rewrite, read and rewrite... I would never show him a first draft, because then he's really going to be sick of…” quote by David Sedaris
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“I tend to write things seven times before I show them to my editor. I write them seven times, then I take them on tour, read them like a dozen times on tour, then go back to the room and rewrite, read and rewrite... I would never show him a first draft, because then he's really going to be sick of it by the twelfth draft.”

David Sedaris

About This Quote

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

He emphasizes relentless revision, polishing work through multiple drafts before sharing to ensure quality.

In simple terms: Polish work through many drafts before sharing.

Key Takeaway

Revise repeatedly before showing others.

Themes

writing revision perfectionism craft discipline

Mood

determined reflective

Type

advice process

When to use this quote

  • author workshops
  • publishing submissions
  • personal writing projects
  • academic papers

Key Concepts

iteration self‑editing feedback loops

Questions to Reflect On

  • How many drafts are enough?
  • Does endless editing hinder creativity?
A Different Perspective

Too many revisions can stall progress and cause perfectionism.

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