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Again and again Quote by Robert Fulghum

“If you notice phrases, ideas, and anecdotes that closely resemble those that appear elsewhere in my writing, it's not a matter of sloppy editing. I'm repeating myself. I'm reshuffling words in the hope that just once I might say something exactly right. And I'm still wrestling with dilemmas that…” quote by Robert Fulghum
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“If you notice phrases, ideas, and anecdotes that closely resemble those that appear elsewhere in my writing, it's not a matter of sloppy editing. I'm repeating myself. I'm reshuffling words in the hope that just once I might say something exactly right. And I'm still wrestling with dilemmas that are not easily resolved or easily dismissed. I run at them again and again because I am not finished with them. Any may never be. Work-in- progress on a life-in-progress is what my writing is about. And some progress in the work is enough to keep it going on.”

Robert Fulghum

About This Quote

Source Essay: Personal reflections, unknown publication

The author acknowledges recurring ideas in his writing, seeing them as ongoing work‑in‑progress rather than sloppy repetition, emphasizing continuous refinement.

In simple terms: Repeated ideas show a work‑in‑progress, not laziness.

Key Takeaway

Accept revisiting ideas as part of creative growth.

Themes

creativity process revision growth

Mood

introspective motivational

Type

reflective inspirational

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • creative writing
  • personal journaling
  • coaching

Key Concepts

writing self‑reflection learning problem solving

Questions to Reflect On

  • What recurring theme drives your work?
  • How do you know when an idea is fully explored?
A Different Perspective

The view may overlook the value of fresh perspectives; repetition can become stagnant.

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