Argument Quote by Danzy Senna
“I find myself speaking through the other characters, putting ideas in their voices and heads. Writing almost becomes a splitting of myself into multiple personalities. But I don't write to make an argument on behalf of any of the characters, or to prove anything about a character. I think that's important that I be serving the story first and not my own point of view.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Author Talk, 2015
Writing should serve the story, not the writer’s agenda, by separating voice from author.
In simple terms: Story first, ego second.
Key Takeaway
Let characters speak for themselves.
Themes
writing
authorship
storytelling
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
instructional
philosophical
When to use this quote
- novel drafting
- workshop feedback
- creative writing classes
- editorial revisions
Key Concepts
narrative voice
creative process
character autonomy
literary ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure characters remain authentic?
- What techniques keep your voice out of the narrative?
A Different Perspective
Writers may unintentionally embed personal bias despite intent.
