Assertion Quote by Frank Smith
![“Thoughts are created in the act of writing. [It is a myth that] you must have something to say in order to write. Reality: You often need to write in order to have anything to say. Thought comes with writing, and writing may never come if it is postponed until we are satisfied that we have…” quote by Frank Smith](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/80e/frank-smith-29214_assertion_thoughts-are-created-in-the-act-of-writi_489595.jpg)
“Thoughts are created in the act of writing. [It is a myth that] you must have something to say in order to write. Reality: You often need to write in order to have anything to say. Thought comes with writing, and writing may never come if it is postponed until we are satisfied that we have something to say...The assertion of write first, see what you had to say later applies to all manifestations of written language, to letters...as well as to diaries and journals”
About This Quote
Source Book: Understanding Writing, 1971
Writing itself generates ideas; you don’t need a pre‑formed thought to start, because the act of writing creates the material.
In simple terms: Writing creates thoughts, not the other way around.
Key Takeaway
Start writing to discover what you want to say.
Themes
creativity
process
learning
productivity
Mood
inspirational
encouraging
Type
practical
motivational
When to use this quote
- journals
- academic papers
- creative projects
- blog posts
Key Concepts
idea generation
writing practice
self‑discovery
Questions to Reflect On
- What ideas emerge when you write without a plan?
- How can you overcome the fear of empty pages?
A Different Perspective
It may not work for everyone, especially those needing extensive planning.
