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“With each draft, the work gets better, and usually that means tighter. It means getting the precise word, not the approximate word.” quote by John Dufresne
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“With each draft, the work gets better, and usually that means tighter. It means getting the precise word, not the approximate word.”

John Dufresne

About This Quote

Source Essay: Writing process, 1998

Each revision refines work, tightening language to precise expression.

In simple terms: Rewrites improve clarity and precision.

Key Takeaway

Edit relentlessly for exact wording.

Themes

writing revision precision

Mood

pragmatic instructive

Type

educational practical

When to use this quote

  • novel drafting
  • academic papers
  • marketing copy
  • personal journaling

Key Concepts

craftsmanship linguistic exactness

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does editing become counterproductive?
  • How do you know a word is precise enough?
A Different Perspective

Over‑editing can stall progress; balance is needed.

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