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About Quote by Jill McCorkle

“The first draft is all about freedom, and if loyalty is in question, it is only my loyalty to the characters and situations on the page. All the worries about where the material may have sprung from or what so-and-so might think can be dealt with later.” quote by Jill McCorkle
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“The first draft is all about freedom, and if loyalty is in question, it is only my loyalty to the characters and situations on the page. All the worries about where the material may have sprung from or what so-and-so might think can be dealt with later.”

Jill McCorkle

About This Quote

Source Book: Writing Craft, Jill McCorkle, 2005

The initial draft should prioritize creative freedom, focusing on loyalty to the story’s characters and situations, while postponing concerns about origins or external opinions.

In simple terms: Write freely, stay true to characters, worry later.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize story over self‑criticism.

Themes

creativity loyalty writing process

Mood

focused determined

Type

advice process.

When to use this quote

  • first draft
  • novel writing
  • screenplay development
  • creative workshops

Key Concepts

authorial voice character immersion

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does loyalty to characters shape your narrative?
  • When should you seek external input?
A Different Perspective

Ignoring feedback too long can entrench flaws.

3.8 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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