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I write with a fountain pen. And then revise word by word…

“I write with a fountain pen. And then revise word by word and line by line so that the first draft of a scene is usually the tenth or so draft.” quote by John Dufresne
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“I write with a fountain pen. And then revise word by word and line by line so that the first draft of a scene is usually the tenth or so draft.”

John Dufresne

About This Quote

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

Meticulous revision transforms an initial draft into a polished piece through repeated, detailed editing.

In simple terms: Rewrite repeatedly to improve writing.

Key Takeaway

Embrace thorough, line‑by‑line editing.

Themes

writing revision perfectionism process discipline

Mood

determined analytical focused

Type

creative inspirational

When to use this quote

  • novel drafting
  • academic papers
  • blog posts
  • screenplays
  • marketing copy

Key Concepts

craftsmanship literary technique focus

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does revision become counterproductive?
  • How can you balance polish with momentum?
A Different Perspective

Excessive editing can stall progress and cause perfection paralysis.

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