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Cliche Quote by Neal Shusterman

“Really?" Risa said, disgusted. "'What do we have here?' Is that your best line? If you're going to attack a defenseless girl in an alley, at least try not to be cliché about it.” quote by Neal Shusterman
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““Really?" Risa said, disgusted. "'What do we have here?' Is that your best line? If you're going to attack a defenseless girl in an alley, at least try not to be cliché about it.””

Neal Shusterman

About This Quote

Source Novel: *The Unwind Dystopia*, Neal Shusterman, 2007

Cliché and gratuitous violence are lazy storytelling; avoid stereotypes and aim for originality and empathy.

In simple terms: Avoid cliché violence; be original.

Key Takeaway

Write with nuance and respect.

Themes

writing ethics originality stereotypes

Mood

thoughtful empathetic

Type

creative educational

When to use this quote

  • Screenwriting
  • novel writing
  • dialogue crafting

Key Concepts

creative writing storytelling character development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you convey conflict without resorting to cliché?
  • What alternatives bring depth to a scene?
A Different Perspective

Overreliance on shock can alienate audiences.

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