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Books Quote by E. L. Doctorow

“I get intrigued by a first lin and I write to find out why it means something to me. You make discoveries just the way the reader does, so you're simultaneously the writer and the reader.” quote by E. L. Doctorow
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“I get intrigued by a first lin and I write to find out why it means something to me. You make discoveries just the way the reader does, so you're simultaneously the writer and the reader.”

E. L. Doctorow

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Writer’s Process, 1995

Writing a first line sparks curiosity, making the writer both creator and discoverer.

In simple terms: First line sparks discovery.

Key Takeaway

Write to explore your curiosity.

Themes

writing discovery creativity reader writer

Mood

thoughtful engaging

Type

literary inspirational

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • creative writing
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

narrative theory creative process

Questions to Reflect On

  • What first line would intrigue you?
  • How does curiosity shape your work?
A Different Perspective

Discovery can be unsettling.

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