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The first novel I wrote was a monster - clocking in at…

“The first novel I wrote was a monster - clocking in at 180,000 words - but it died a death, a death it deserved. It was called 'The Gods First Make Mad.' It was a good title, but it was the only good thing about the book. I didn't let that put me off.” quote by Wilbur Smith
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“The first novel I wrote was a monster - clocking in at 180,000 words - but it died a death, a death it deserved. It was called 'The Gods First Make Mad.' It was a good title, but it was the only good thing about the book. I didn't let that put me off.”

Wilbur Smith

About This Quote

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

The author admits his work was flawed but still valued its title, showing that even poor creations can hold a spark of merit.

In simple terms: Even bad books can have a good title.

Key Takeaway

Find value in small successes.

Themes

creativity self‑critique resilience literature

Mood

reflective determined analytical

Type

literary motivational

When to use this quote

  • author workshops
  • self‑editing
  • publishing decisions

Key Concepts

writing self‑assessment title importance

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can a title redeem a weak work?
  • How do you keep motivated after a failure?
A Different Perspective

It may overemphasize title over overall quality.

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