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Eight Quote by Edward Hirsch

“I write a line and then I revise the line and then I write two lines and then I revise lines one and two and then I write one, two and three and I revise one and two and then I write seven and eight and then I see that should be line four and I continually work it over as I go.” quote by Edward Hirsch
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“I write a line and then I revise the line and then I write two lines and then I revise lines one and two and then I write one, two and three and I revise one and two and then I write seven and eight and then I see that should be line four and I continually work it over as I go.”

Edward Hirsch

About This Quote

Source Interview: Poetry discussion, date unknown

The creative process involves iterative layering, revising, and expanding ideas step by step.

In simple terms: Writing is a recursive, evolving process.

Key Takeaway

Embrace revision and incremental development.

Themes

creativity process revision iteration

Mood

contemplative analytical

Type

creative process

When to use this quote

  • drafting
  • editing
  • brainstorming
  • project development

Key Concepts

writing poetry methodology

Questions to Reflect On

  • When do you stop revising?
  • How does each revision improve the work?
A Different Perspective

Over‑revision can stall progress if not balanced with completion.

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