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History Quote by Martin Cruz Smith

“The research is the most interesting part… That’s how I work. I go some place and I walk it and I talk to people until I find what I’ve come for. Or not. Fortunately, I tend to find what I’m after.” quote by Martin Cruz Smith
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“The research is the most interesting part… That’s how I work. I go some place and I walk it and I talk to people until I find what I’ve come for. Or not. Fortunately, I tend to find what I’m after.”

Martin Cruz Smith

About This Quote

Source Interview: Martin Cruz Smith on research methods, 2015

Describes a hands‑on, exploratory approach to research, emphasizing immersion and conversation to discover insights.

In simple terms: Research by exploring and talking to people.

Key Takeaway

Embrace immersive research.

Themes

curiosity methodology discovery

Mood

inquisitive pragmatic

Type

methodological inspirational

When to use this quote

  • journalism
  • academic studies
  • creative projects
  • investigative reporting

Key Concepts

fieldwork dialogue serendipity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you incorporate fieldwork into your discipline?
  • What unexpected insights have you gained from direct interaction?
A Different Perspective

May not apply to highly quantitative fields.

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