Skip to content

Book Quote by Paul Auster

“When I start, I have a feeling for the characters, and maybe the shape of the story. Sometimes I might even have the last sentence in mind. But, no book I've ever written has ever ended the way I thought it would. Characters disappear, others come forward. Once you start writing, everything changes.” quote by Paul Auster
Download Open image
“When I start, I have a feeling for the characters, and maybe the shape of the story. Sometimes I might even have the last sentence in mind. But, no book I've ever written has ever ended the way I thought it would. Characters disappear, others come forward. Once you start writing, everything changes.”

Paul Auster

About This Quote

Writing is unpredictable; initial visions shift as characters evolve, showing the fluid nature of creativity.

In simple terms: Stories change as you write.

Key Takeaway

Embrace creative uncertainty.

Themes

creativity uncertainty storytelling process

Mood

contemplative inquisitive

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • screenwriting
  • creative workshops

Key Concepts

narrative fluidity authorial discovery

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you adapt when your story diverges?
  • What strategies help you stay flexible?
A Different Perspective

Plans may feel frustrating; lack of control.

4.5 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Paul Auster

Explore all 583 Paul Auster quotes

More Book quotes

Browse all 29,381 Book quotes