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I'm a fierce editor! I don't edit out things that I began…

“I'm a fierce editor! I don't edit out things that I began by saying, usually. The editing is on the micro level - a comma here, a word there.” quote by Lydia Davis
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“I'm a fierce editor! I don't edit out things that I began by saying, usually. The editing is on the micro level - a comma here, a word there.”

Lydia Davis

About This Quote

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

She emphasizes meticulous, small‑scale editing rather than large revisions, valuing precision over omission.

In simple terms: Focus on tiny edits, not big cuts.

Key Takeaway

Edit details, not whole ideas.

Themes

precision editing craft attention to detail

Mood

focused analytical

Type

instructional reflective

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • self‑editing
  • proofreading
  • creative process

Key Concepts

micro‑editing authorial voice

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you prioritize micro edits over macro revisions?
  • How does this approach affect your writing flow?
A Different Perspective

May overlook larger structural issues.

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