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I revise the manuscript till I can't read it any longer…

“I revise the manuscript till I can't read it any longer, then I get somebody to type it. Then I revise the typing. Then it's retyped again. Then there's a third typing, which is the final one. Nothing should then remain that offends the eye.” quote by Robert Graves
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“I revise the manuscript till I can't read it any longer, then I get somebody to type it. Then I revise the typing. Then it's retyped again. Then there's a third typing, which is the final one. Nothing should then remain that offends the eye.”

Robert Graves

About This Quote

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

Multiple revisions and retyping aim to eliminate visual flaws, emphasizing meticulous editing.

In simple terms: Revise until it looks perfect.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize clarity over speed.

Themes

editing perfection process

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

instructional philosophical

When to use this quote

  • Manuscript preparation
  • academic publishing
  • self‑editing
  • proofreading

Key Concepts

Literary craft visual aesthetics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How many drafts are enough?
  • When does editing become over‑editing?
A Different Perspective

Perfection can delay completion.

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