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So for me the approach has become to go into a story not…

“So for me the approach has become to go into a story not really sure of what I want to say, try to find some little seed crystal of interest, a sentence or an image or an idea, and as much as possible divest myself of any deep ideas about it. And then by this process of revision, mysteriously it…” quote by George Saunders
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“So for me the approach has become to go into a story not really sure of what I want to say, try to find some little seed crystal of interest, a sentence or an image or an idea, and as much as possible divest myself of any deep ideas about it. And then by this process of revision, mysteriously it starts to accrete meanings as you go.”

George Saunders

About This Quote

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

The writer should enter a story without a fixed agenda, let small details emerge, and allow meaning to develop organically through revision.

In simple terms: Start with a seed idea, avoid pre‑set conclusions, let meaning grow.

Key Takeaway

Embrace uncertainty and let revision shape meaning.

Themes

creativity process revision

Mood

curious reflective

Type

inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • short story drafting
  • creative brainstorming
  • editing sessions

Key Concepts

emergent narrative organic development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you stay open to unexpected directions?
  • What small detail could become a story’s core?
A Different Perspective

If you impose too many ideas early, you may limit the story’s natural evolution.

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