About Quote by David Berman
“Allen Ginsburg was wrong about a lot of things, but especially when he said, 'First thought, best thought.'”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Pitchfork, 2015
Ginsburg’s claim that the first thought is the best is flawed; later thoughts can improve upon initial ideas, suggesting the value of revision.
In simple terms: First ideas aren’t always best; refinement matters.
Key Takeaway
Embrace revision and critical thinking.
Themes
creativity
revision
critical thinking
artistic process
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
artistic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- writing
- music composition
- design
- problem solving
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
creative process
Questions to Reflect On
- When should you trust your initial instinct?
- How much time should you spend revising?
A Different Perspective
Over‑editing can stall progress; balance is needed.
![“I was once arrested with [Allen] Ginsburg. He was a big help to me. He was one of the few people who read unknown writer's work. Maybe he was just hustling me. He liked to flirt, Allen. They called him a monster but he was only falling in love.” quote by Hunter S. Thompson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d12/hunter-s-thompson-278_arrested_i-was-once-arrested-with-allen-ginsburg_119642.jpg)
