Firsts Quote by Sandra Cisneros
“Something I always tell students is, when you're writing something, you want to write the first draft and you want it to come out easily in the beginning. If you're afraid to say what you really have to say, you stammer. [...] You're judging yourself, you know, thinking about your listener. You're not thinking about what you're saying. And that same thing happens when you write.”
About This Quote
Source Lecture: Creative Writing Workshop, date unknown
Writing flows best when you release self‑judgment and focus on expression rather than audience approval.
In simple terms: Write freely without over‑thinking the audience.
Prioritize authentic expression over fear.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- classroom writing
- first drafts
- public speaking
- personal journals
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does self‑judgment hinder your writing?
- What strategies help you stay authentic?
If you over‑edit early, you may lose original ideas.