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If you write something that you love beyond all reason, it…

“If you write something that you love beyond all reason, it is wrong and you should strike it out.” quote by William Faulkner
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““If you write something that you love beyond all reason, it is wrong and you should strike it out.””

William Faulkner

About This Quote

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

Writing driven by irrational passion can betray craft and truth, so it should be removed.

In simple terms: Passionate but unreasonable writing is flawed.

Key Takeaway

Edit out irrational work.

Themes

craft integrity self‑criticism

Mood

reflective critical

Type

advice literary

When to use this quote

  • novel drafting
  • journal writing
  • editing
  • self‑review

Key Concepts

literary standards creative discipline

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you distinguish passion from reason in your work?
  • How can you channel love for a piece without compromising quality?
A Different Perspective

Creative impulse can be valuable if harnessed, not discarded.

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