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When you are developing your style, you avoid weaknesses…

“When you are developing your style, you avoid weaknesses. I am not good at describing things, so I stay away from it. And if anyone is going to describe anything at all, it's going to be from the point of view of the character, because then I can use his voice, and his attitude will be revealed in…” quote by Elmore Leonard
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“When you are developing your style, you avoid weaknesses. I am not good at describing things, so I stay away from it. And if anyone is going to describe anything at all, it's going to be from the point of view of the character, because then I can use his voice, and his attitude will be revealed in the way he describes what he sees.”

Elmore Leonard

About This Quote

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

He suggests focusing on strengths and using character perspective to convey description, avoiding personal weaknesses.

In simple terms: Use character voice for description, not personal skill.

Key Takeaway

Leverage character viewpoint for vivid description.

Themes

writing character development strengths voice

Mood

reflective pragmatic

Type

advice instructional

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • screenwriting
  • character sketches
  • creative workshops

Key Concepts

narrative technique character perspective self-awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance character voice with personal narrative?
  • When is it beneficial to step out of character?
A Different Perspective

May limit exploration of author’s own descriptive abilities.

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