Clicks Quote by Matthew Zapruder
“Milton on speed. I am going to need about a decade to think about that. That delay in syntax, the putting off of the click of the sentence into itself, is something that has always intrigued me. I love the emotional effect of it, and never want it to be merely a gesture. Sometimes I try it and it doesn't work, so I have to put the poem aside, and try again, more simply and more strange.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: “Speed” from the collection “The Unfolding” by Matthew Zapruder, 2018
The poet wrestles with pacing in language, seeking a balance between clarity and mystery, revising until the effect feels both simple and strange.
In simple terms: Finding the right rhythm in writing is a trial and error process.
Key Takeaway
Revise for clarity and surprise.
Themes
creativity
language
process
Mood
introspective
thoughtful
Type
creative
processual
When to use this quote
- writing workshop
- creative writing
- editing
- literary analysis
Key Concepts
poetic form
syntax
revision
Questions to Reflect On
- When does revision become hindrance?
- How can you trust intuition in drafting?
A Different Perspective
Too much revision can stall progress; over‑editing may strip authenticity.
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