In a very real way, one writes a story to find out what…
“In a very real way, one writes a story to find out what happens in it. Before it is written it sits in the mind like a piece of overheard gossip or a bit of intriguing tattle. The story process is like taking up such a piece of gossip, hunting down the people actually involved, questioning them, finding out what really occurred, and visiting pertinent locations. As with gossip, you can't be too surprised if important things turn up that were left out of the first-heard version entirely; or if points initially made much of turn out to have been distorted, or simply not to have happened at all.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Writing a story reveals hidden truths, much like gossip uncovers unexpected details when investigated.
In simple terms: Writing uncovers hidden truths.
Key Takeaway
Write to discover.
Themes
creativity
truth
investigation
Mood
curious
reflective
Type
analytical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenwriting
- research
- storyboarding
Key Concepts
narrative theory
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions do you bring to a story?
- How can surprise enhance narrative?
A Different Perspective
Stories may diverge from original ideas, causing disappointment.