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To come up with the ending to a story and then work…

“To come up with the ending to a story and then work backwards is like tying your shoe with one hand only.” quote by Donald McKay
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“To come up with the ending to a story and then work backwards is like tying your shoe with one hand only.”

Donald McKay

About This Quote

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

Planning a story’s ending first and then back‑tracking is as awkward as tying a shoe with one hand.

In simple terms: Start with the end, then work backward.

Key Takeaway

Plan conclusions before details.

Themes

writing creativity process structure

Mood

reflective pragmatic

Type

advice instructional

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • screenwriting
  • game narrative design

Key Concepts

reverse engineering storytelling plot development

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is a pre‑planned ending restrictive?
  • How can flexibility be kept in reverse planning?
A Different Perspective

May limit spontaneity and organic character growth.

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