Bad writing Quote by P. D. James
““Read widely and with discrimination. Bad writing is contagious." [ Ten rules for writing fiction , The Guardian, 20 February 2010 (with Diana Athill, Margaret Atwood, Roddy Doyle, Helen Dunmore, Geoff Dyer, Anne Enright, Richard Ford, Jonathan Franzen, Esther Freud, Neil Gaiman, David Hare, and AL Kennedy)]””
About This Quote
Source Article: Ten rules for writing fiction, The Guardian, 20 February 2010
Read broadly and critically; poor writing spreads like a disease.
In simple terms: Read widely, but be selective; bad writing is contagious.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate discerning reading habits.
Themes
writing
literature
education
Mood
thoughtful
instructive
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- book clubs
- editorial reviews
- self‑editing practice
Key Concepts
critical thinking
literary standards
reading strategies
Questions to Reflect On
- What criteria define “bad” writing?
- How can you balance critique with encouragement?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on criticism may discourage experimentation.
