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Flatter Quote by Janet Flanner

“I keep going over a sentence. I nag it, gnaw it, pat and flatter it.” quote by Janet Flanner
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“I keep going over a sentence. I nag it, gnaw it, pat and flatter it.”

Janet Flanner

About This Quote

Source Magazine: The New Yorker, “The Art of Writing,” 1935

The writer obsessively revises a sentence, treating it with both criticism and admiration to achieve perfection.

In simple terms: Revision is a blend of critique and affection.

Key Takeaway

Iterate with both rigor and love.

Themes

writing revision perfectionism

Mood

thoughtful determined

Type

creative reflective

When to use this quote

  • editing drafts
  • creative writing workshops
  • academic papers

Key Concepts

literary craft self‑critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does polishing become paralysis?
  • How can we balance critique with confidence?
A Different Perspective

Over‑editing can stall progress and cause self‑doubt.

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