Books Quote by Maxwell Perkins
“Writing a novel is a very hard thing to do because it covers so long a space of time, and if you get discouraged it is not a bad sign, but a good one. If you think you are not doing it well, you are thinking the way real novelists do. I never knew one who did not feel greatly discouraged at times, and some get desperate, and I have always found that to be a good symptom.”
About This Quote
Discouragement in novel writing signals engagement and progress, not failure.
In simple terms: Feeling discouraged is normal for writers.
Key Takeaway
Embrace discouragement as a sign of growth.
Themes
writing
creativity
resilience
Mood
reflective
encouraging
Type
literary
inspirational
When to use this quote
- novel drafting
- writing workshops
- solo writing sessions
Key Concepts
authorial self‑doubt
creative process
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you turn doubt into motivation?
- When does frustration become productive?
A Different Perspective
Discouragement may stall momentum.
