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Discard Quote by Leonard Cohen

“I can work on a verse for a very long time before realising it's not any good and then, and only then, can I discard it.” quote by Leonard Cohen
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“I can work on a verse for a very long time before realising it's not any good and then, and only then, can I discard it.”

Leonard Cohen

About This Quote

Source Interview: Rolling Stone, 1979

Creative process involves prolonged effort and self‑criticism before discarding unsatisfactory work.

In simple terms: Write, evaluate, then discard bad verses.

Key Takeaway

Embrace patience and honest self‑assessment in art.

Themes

creativity self‑criticism artistic process patience

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

artistic process

When to use this quote

  • songwriting
  • poetry
  • draft revision
  • artistic workshops
  • self‑reflection

Key Concepts

Iterative creation quality control creative discipline

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it time to let go of a piece?
  • How does critique shape artistic growth?
A Different Perspective

Perfectionism can stall progress if not balanced.

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