Chapters Quote by John le Carre
“When it's going well [writing] goes terribly fast. It isn't at all surprising to write a chapter in a day, which for me is about twenty-two pages. When it's going badly, it isn't really going badly; it's just the beginning.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Author discussion, 1990s
Writing speed reflects the writer's mental state; ease yields rapid output, struggle signals a new phase of development.
In simple terms: Writing flows when ideas are clear; difficulty marks a fresh start.
Embrace early difficulty as a growth opportunity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- writing sessions
- creative blocks
- deadline pressure
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What triggers your best writing flow?
- How can you use early struggle to improve?
Rapid output may sacrifice depth; slow phases can be productive.