When it's going well [writing] goes terribly fast. It…
![“When it's going well [writing] goes terribly fast. It isn't at all surprising to write a chapter in a day, which for me is about twenty-two pages. When it's going badly, it isn't really going badly; it's just the beginning.” quote by John le Carre](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/917/john-le-carre-651_chapters_when-it-s-going-well-writing-goes-terrib_601245.jpg)
“When it's going well [writing] goes terribly fast. It isn't at all surprising to write a chapter in a day, which for me is about twenty-two pages. When it's going badly, it isn't really going badly; it's just the beginning.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Writing speed reflects the writer's mental state; ease yields rapid output, struggle signals a new phase of development.
In simple terms: Writing flows when ideas are clear; difficulty marks a fresh start.
Key Takeaway
Embrace early difficulty as a growth opportunity.
Themes
creativity
process
mindset
Mood
reflective
encouraging
Type
creative
motivational
When to use this quote
- writing sessions
- creative blocks
- deadline pressure
Key Concepts
flow state
psychology of writing
productivity
Questions to Reflect On
- What triggers your best writing flow?
- How can you use early struggle to improve?
A Different Perspective
Rapid output may sacrifice depth; slow phases can be productive.