Decide Quote by Adele Logan Alexander
“You have to decide what is extraneous and what is central. There is always more to tell. If you want to have a finished product, at some point you have to say "enough."”
About This Quote
Source Book: Narrative Craft, 2015
Writers must prune excess and focus on core elements to deliver a complete, satisfying story.
In simple terms: Trim the unnecessary, keep the core.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize essential story parts.
Themes
writing
editing
focus
structure
storytelling
Mood
analytical
practical
Type
creative
instructional
When to use this quote
- drafting a novel
- editing a screenplay
- preparing a presentation
- designing a product
- curating an exhibition
Key Concepts
narrative economy
clarity
discipline
creative restraint
Questions to Reflect On
- What is the right balance between detail and brevity?
- How do you decide what to cut?
A Different Perspective
Over‑editing may strip needed nuance.
