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When I start, I have a feeling for the characters, and…

“When I start, I have a feeling for the characters, and maybe the shape of the story. Sometimes I might even have the last sentence in mind. But, no book I've ever written has ever ended the way I thought it would. Characters disappear, others come forward. Once you start writing, everything changes.” quote by Paul Auster
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“When I start, I have a feeling for the characters, and maybe the shape of the story. Sometimes I might even have the last sentence in mind. But, no book I've ever written has ever ended the way I thought it would. Characters disappear, others come forward. Once you start writing, everything changes.”

Paul Auster

About This Quote

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

Writing is unpredictable; initial visions shift as characters evolve, showing the fluid nature of creativity.

In simple terms: Stories change as you write.

Key Takeaway

Embrace creative uncertainty.

Themes

creativity uncertainty storytelling process

Mood

contemplative inquisitive

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • screenwriting
  • creative workshops

Key Concepts

narrative fluidity authorial discovery

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you adapt when your story diverges?
  • What strategies help you stay flexible?
A Different Perspective

Plans may feel frustrating; lack of control.

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