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That is an editor. He is trying to think of a word. He…

“That is an editor. He is trying to think of a word. He props his feet on a chair, which is the editor's way; then he can think better. I do not care much for this one; his ears are not alike; still, editor suggests the sound of Edward, and he will do. I could make him better if I had a model, but…” quote by Mark Twain
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“That is an editor. He is trying to think of a word. He props his feet on a chair, which is the editor's way; then he can think better. I do not care much for this one; his ears are not alike; still, editor suggests the sound of Edward, and he will do. I could make him better if I had a model, but I made this one from memory. But is no particular matter; they all look alike, anyway. They are conceited and troublesome, and don't pay enough.”

Mark Twain

About This Quote

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

The speaker describes an editor’s quirky habit of propping feet to think, noting its oddity and the editor’s lack of pay.

In simple terms: An editor sits oddly while thinking, yet gets paid little.

Key Takeaway

Recognize quirky habits but value work fairly.

Themes

creativity work habits valuation humor

Mood

ironic reflective

Type

observational humorous

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • editing
  • office routines
  • creative brainstorming

Key Concepts

cognitive ergonomics authorial process labor economics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do quirky habits help your focus?
  • How should we value creative labor?
A Different Perspective

Such habits may not improve productivity for everyone.

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