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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.” quote by John le Carre
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“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.”

John le Carre

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.

Key Takeaway

Embrace early difficulty as a growth opportunity.

Themes

creativity process mindset

Mood

reflective encouraging

Type

creative motivational

When to use this quote

  • writing sessions
  • creative blocks
  • deadline pressure

Key Concepts

flow state psychology of writing productivity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What triggers your best writing flow?
  • How can you use early struggle to improve?
A Different Perspective

Rapid output may sacrifice depth; slow phases can be productive.

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