Apology Quote by Hume Cronyn
“I try to read everything that's sent me - play scripts, movie scripts - but I've had to make a rule. If the author hasn't grabbed me by Page 25, the piece goes back with a note of apology.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: with Hume Cronyn, date unknown
The speaker emphasizes a personal rule: only continue reading a work if it captures interest early, otherwise discard it politely.
In simple terms: Only keep reading if it grabs you quickly; otherwise stop.
Key Takeaway
Set early engagement criteria for reading.
Themes
efficiency
selectivity
literary taste
Mood
pragmatic
critical
Type
advice
literary criticism
When to use this quote
- reading
- screening
- professional life
Key Concepts
attention span
curation
personal standards
Questions to Reflect On
- What early signs tell you a piece is worth your time?
- Do you ever revisit works you initially rejected?
A Different Perspective
It may cause missing out on slower‑burning works.
