Attention Quote by Don Winslow
“I try to pay attention to language. I think that as a general rule, we as writers talk too much and we should listen more. I read my dialogue out loud to myself because I think that's when you catch the wrong notes and the wrong tones.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Writing Craft, Don Winslow, 2020
Writers often over‑talk and miss how their words sound; reading dialogue aloud reveals awkward phrasing and tone issues.
In simple terms: Writers should listen to their own words.
Key Takeaway
Read dialogue aloud to catch errors.
Themes
writing
communication
editing
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
advice
instructional
When to use this quote
- novel drafting
- screenplay revision
- public speaking practice
- editing workshops
Key Concepts
tone
voice
dialogue
self‑critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How does hearing your words change your revisions?
- What patterns emerge when you read dialogue aloud?
A Different Perspective
Listening alone doesn't fix structural problems.
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