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Cases Quote by Lord Chesterfield

“To write anything tolerable, the mind must be in a natural, proper disposition; provocatives, in that case, as well as in another,will only produce miserable, abortive performances.” quote by Lord Chesterfield
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“To write anything tolerable, the mind must be in a natural, proper disposition; provocatives, in that case, as well as in another,will only produce miserable, abortive performances.”

Lord Chesterfield

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Art of Writing, 1748

Effective writing requires a calm, proper mind; provocative or forced attempts yield poor results.

In simple terms: Good writing needs a calm mind.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate a calm mindset before writing.

Themes

writing creativity mindset

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

literary educational

When to use this quote

  • writing retreats
  • mindfulness before drafting
  • editing process

Key Concepts

literary criticism psychology of creativity focus

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you prepare your mind to write?
  • When is provocation useful?
A Different Perspective

Creative bursts can be valuable if managed.

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