Appreciate Quote by P. D. James
“read widely, not in order to copy someone else's style, but to learn to appreciate and recognize good writing and to see how the best writers have achieved their result. Poor writing is, unfortunately, infectious and should be avoided.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Writing Advice, P. D. James, 1990
Read broadly to recognize quality, avoid copying, and prevent the spread of poor writing.
In simple terms: Read widely, avoid copying, prevent bad writing.
Key Takeaway
Read, emulate quality, reject bad habits.
Themes
reading
writing
learning
quality
influence
Mood
educational
analytical
Type
instructional
literary
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- editing
- literary critique
Key Concepts
literary analysis
creative development
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you apply insights from reading to your own writing?
- What habits help you avoid copying?
A Different Perspective
Reading alone doesn’t guarantee skill without practice.
