Editing Quote by Nicolas Boileau-Despreaux
“Of every four words I write, I strike out three.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Art of Writing, 1670
Writing is a process of constant revision; most words are discarded to achieve clarity.
In simple terms: Writing involves heavy editing.
Key Takeaway
Edit relentlessly.
Themes
writing
creativity
discipline
revision
clarity
Mood
analytical
focused
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- drafting essays
- novel writing
- academic papers
Key Concepts
editing techniques
literary craft
self‑critique
Questions to Reflect On
- Which words are essential to your message?
- How do you balance editing with flow?
A Different Perspective
Over‑editing may stifle spontaneity.
![“At the time there was a hospital strike in New York and the Catholic hospitals were part of a general consortium, and the head of the consortium had decided that they were finally going to replace some of the striking workers. And I hear [John] O'Connor yelling, 'Over my dead body will you replace…” quote by Nat Hentoff](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/556/nat-hentoff-1615_body_at-the-time-there-was-a-hospital-strike_402085.jpg)
![“He [Moliere] pleases all the world, but cannot please himself.” quote by Nicolas Boileau-Despreaux](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/812/nicolas-boileau-despreaux-1070_can-not_he-moliere-pleases-all-the-world-but-can_20665.jpg)
