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That of all the several ways of beginning a book which are…

“That of all the several ways of beginning a book which are now in practice throughout the known world, I am confident my own way of doing it is the bst-- I'm sure it is the most religious-- for I begin with writing the first sentence-- and trusting to Almighty God for the second.” quote by Laurence Sterne
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“That of all the several ways of beginning a book which are now in practice throughout the known world, I am confident my own way of doing it is the bst-- I'm sure it is the most religious-- for I begin with writing the first sentence-- and trusting to Almighty God for the second.”

Laurence Sterne

About This Quote

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

The author humorously claims his method of starting a book—writing the first sentence and leaving the second to divine inspiration—is the most religious and effective.

In simple terms: He trusts God for the next line after his opening.

Key Takeaway

Begin with confidence, then trust the process.

Themes

creativity faith writing humor

Mood

playful reflective

Type

literary humorous

When to use this quote

  • starting a novel
  • creative block
  • spiritual practice
  • writing workshops

Key Concepts

divine inspiration authorial confidence

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you ever rely on external forces for creative decisions?
  • How does humor affect your perception of faith?
A Different Perspective

Reliance on divine guidance may limit personal agency in storytelling.

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