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Change Quote by John Irving

“It is much easier to be flexible about where a story begins than it ever was for me to change my mind about where and how a story ended.” quote by John Irving
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“It is much easier to be flexible about where a story begins than it ever was for me to change my mind about where and how a story ended.”

John Irving

About This Quote

Flexibility in narrative origins is simpler than revising conclusions, highlighting the difficulty of altering established endings.

In simple terms: Changing story starts is easier than changing endings.

Key Takeaway

Beginnings are malleable; endings resist change.

Themes

creativity storytelling flexibility revision psychology narrative structure

Mood

reflective inquisitive

Type

advice observation

When to use this quote

  • drafting a novel
  • editing a screenplay
  • revising a marketing campaign
  • rebranding a product
  • adapting a historical account

Key Concepts

narrative arcs authorial control cognitive bias

Practical Applications

  • guide writers on structuring drafts
  • help editors prioritize revision efforts

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we cling to original conclusions?
  • How can we make endings more adaptable?
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