Skip to content

Bigs Quote by Mary J. Miller

“I think training your instinct comes from writing and reading. There's no big secret. And reading slush helps, as well; I'd recommend everyone edit a literary magazine at some point. It's time-consuming, but there's a lot to learn from other writers who are also learning. The patterns (twelve…” quote by Mary J. Miller
Download Open image
“I think training your instinct comes from writing and reading. There's no big secret. And reading slush helps, as well; I'd recommend everyone edit a literary magazine at some point. It's time-consuming, but there's a lot to learn from other writers who are also learning. The patterns (twelve stories about whales in this batch?) are also interesting.”

Mary J. Miller

About This Quote

Writing and reading sharpen intuition; editing a literary magazine offers intensive exposure to diverse styles, accelerating growth.

In simple terms: Practice reading, writing, and editing to develop instinct.

Key Takeaway

Active engagement with varied texts builds creative intuition.

Themes

skill development literary practice learning through editing

Mood

inspired curious

Type

advice reflection

When to use this quote

  • college writing workshops
  • self‑published zines
  • creative writing classes

Key Concepts

feedback loops peer learning

Practical Applications

  • join a literary magazine
  • regularly critique peers' work

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does editing others' work reveal gaps in your own writing?
  • What patterns emerge when you read widely across genres?
2.1 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Mary J. Miller

Explore all 29 Mary J. Miller quotes

More Bigs quotes

Browse all 15,542 Bigs quotes