Adjectives Quote by Madeleine L'Engle
“In the final exam in the Chaucer course we were asked why he used certain verbal devices, certain adjectives, why he had certain characters behave in certain ways. And I wrote, 'I don't think Chaucer had any idea why he did any of these things. That isn't the way people write.' I believe this as strongly now as I did then. Most of what is best in writing isn't done deliberately.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Madeleine L'Engle discussing Chaucer, date unknown
The author observes that many effective literary techniques arise instinctively rather than from conscious planning, highlighting the subconscious nature of creative writing.
In simple terms: Good writing often happens unconsciously.
Key Takeaway
Trust your intuition when writing.
Themes
creativity
writing process
intuition
literary analysis
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
analytical
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- draft revisions
- creative brainstorming
- literature courses
Key Concepts
subconscious creativity
authorial intent
organic development
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you rely on instinct or planning?
- How does subconscious skill develop?
A Different Perspective
Not all writers agree; some meticulously plan.
![“Student: Dr. Einstein, Aren't these the same questions as last year's [physics] final exam? Dr. Einstein: Yes; But this year the answers are different.” quote by Albert Einstein](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/408/albert-einstein-33_answers_student-dr-einstein-aren-t-these-the-sam_346819.jpg)
