Clerks Quote by Anonymous
“I'd forgotten - perhaps preferred to forget - that I'd caved in to the interference of some copy-editor... somebody anonymous whose commitment to finding something wrong would not disgrace an Eastern European clerk.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Personal Reflections on Editing, 2018
The author regrets allowing an over‑critical, anonymous copy‑editor to influence their work, fearing it could tarnish their reputation.
In simple terms: Over‑editing can harm confidence.
Key Takeaway
Guard creative voice against undue criticism.
Themes
writing
editing
authorship
Mood
reflective
defensive
Type
literary
advisory
When to use this quote
- manuscript revisions
- peer review
- editorial feedback
Key Concepts
creative control
self‑esteem
Questions to Reflect On
- How to balance constructive feedback with artistic integrity?
- When should an author push back on editorial pressure?
A Different Perspective
Excessive editing may dilute originality and cause self‑doubt.
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