Skip to content

When I write my novels I don't really have a huge plan…

“When I write my novels I don't really have a huge plan beforehand; I don't have the whole plot and architecture, so the story is sort of discovered as I write it.” quote by Michael Ondaatje
Download Open image
“When I write my novels I don't really have a huge plan beforehand; I don't have the whole plot and architecture, so the story is sort of discovered as I write it.”

Michael Ondaatje

About This Quote

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

Some writers discover their story while writing, allowing the narrative to evolve organically rather than following a rigid outline.

In simple terms: Story unfolds during writing, not pre‑planned.

Key Takeaway

Allow the plot to emerge naturally.

Themes

creativity process writing

Mood

introspective inspired

Type

creative processual

When to use this quote

  • novel drafting
  • screenwriting
  • improvisational storytelling

Key Concepts

organic discovery narrative flow flexibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you prefer discovery or planning?
  • How does spontaneity affect character depth?
A Different Perspective

May lead to less cohesive structure.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Michael Ondaatje

Explore all 322 Michael Ondaatje quotes

More Architecture quotes

Browse all 3,013 Architecture quotes