I don't begin a novel until I have written, not just the…
“I don't begin a novel until I have written, not just the last sentence, but usually, as a result thereof, many of the surrounding final paragraphs, so that in addition to knowing what happens, I know what the voice is.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Irving writes the ending first to secure narrative direction and voice before drafting the whole novel.
In simple terms: He writes the ending before the story.
Key Takeaway
Plan the conclusion to guide the story.
Themes
craft
structure
voice
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
creative advice
process
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenwriting
- story outlining
Key Concepts
narrative planning
creative process
authorial control
Questions to Reflect On
- How does knowing the ending affect your writing process?
- Can this method work for all genres?
A Different Perspective
May limit spontaneity in early drafts.