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“I am an obsessive rewriter, doing one draft and then another and another, usually five. In a way, I have nothing to say, but a great deal to add.” quote by Gore Vidal
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“I am an obsessive rewriter, doing one draft and then another and another, usually five. In a way, I have nothing to say, but a great deal to add.”

Gore Vidal

About This Quote

Source Interview: The New Yorker, 1975

The writer feels compelled to keep adding layers, suggesting a lack of core message but abundant detail.

In simple terms: Obsessive editing adds detail but obscures main point.

Key Takeaway

Focus on core idea before expanding.

Themes

writing self‑critique creativity

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

literary process

When to use this quote

  • drafting novels
  • academic papers
  • blog posts
  • screenplays

Key Concepts

perfectionism iterative process authorial voice

Questions to Reflect On

  • What is the essential message you want to convey?
  • How many drafts are enough?
A Different Perspective

Too many revisions can dilute impact.

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