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Difficult Quote by Cynthia Voigt

“If I'm writing by intuition, generally that calculation works itself out. But if I'm writing a mystery, and somebody has to have a reason for doing what he's doing, and it's not anything I can imagine myself wanting to do, things get a little more difficult to write, and careless mistakes are made.” quote by Cynthia Voigt
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“If I'm writing by intuition, generally that calculation works itself out. But if I'm writing a mystery, and somebody has to have a reason for doing what he's doing, and it's not anything I can imagine myself wanting to do, things get a little more difficult to write, and careless mistakes are made.”

Cynthia Voigt

About This Quote

Source Interview: Discussing Writing Process, Cynthia Voigt, 2015

Intuitive writing flows naturally, but mystery plots demand logical motives, making them harder and prone to errors.

In simple terms: Intuition helps, but mystery needs logical motives.

Key Takeaway

Balance intuition with plot planning.

Themes

writing intuition plot mistakes

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

advice process

When to use this quote

  • novel drafting
  • screenwriting
  • game design
  • storyboarding
  • editing

Key Concepts

character motivation narrative structure creative process

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you ensure character motives feel authentic?
  • What techniques help you avoid plot holes?
A Different Perspective

Even intuition can falter without clear character reasons.

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