Children Quote by Lionel Shriver
““I am a wordy writer, and often churn out pages on end without advancing the plot a jot. Hence I try to take my cue from a childhood impatience with any device that doesn't get somewhere. Even in his sprightly youth, Clippity had a problem with running in place—just like my first drafts—when the surface was too slick. As a kid, I was ingenious enough to smear green Plasticine on his rear hooves. Thus I discovered the importance of traction, as handy a concept in literature as for wind-up toys.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Author Discusses Writing Process, 2020
The author compares her early drafts to a toy lacking traction, emphasizing the need for forward momentum in storytelling.
In simple terms: Writing needs traction to move forward.
Key Takeaway
Focus on plot progression.
Themes
creativity
writing process
discipline
metaphor
Mood
reflective
practical
Type
literary
motivational
When to use this quote
- writing workshop
- editorial feedback
- self‑editing
Key Concepts
narrative flow
literary technique
motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you maintain momentum in long projects?
- What tools help you avoid “running in place”?
A Different Perspective
Metaphor may not apply to all writers.
