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Blue Quote by Stephen King

“I’m not particularly keen on writing which exhaustively describes the physical characteristics of the people in the story and what they’re wearing… I can always get a J. Crew catalogue… …So spare me, if you please, the hero’s ‘sharply intelligent blue eyes’ and ‘outthrust determined chin’.” quote by Stephen King
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“I’m not particularly keen on writing which exhaustively describes the physical characteristics of the people in the story and what they’re wearing… I can always get a J. Crew catalogue… …So spare me, if you please, the hero’s ‘sharply intelligent blue eyes’ and ‘outthrust determined chin’.”

Stephen King

About This Quote

Source Interview: Stephen King on Writing, 2015

The author criticizes overly detailed physical descriptions, urging writers to focus on story rather than exhaustive visual detail.

In simple terms: Avoid unnecessary description.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize narrative over visual minutiae.

Themes

writing conciseness characterization

Mood

reflective critical

Type

advice literary

When to use this quote

  • novel drafting
  • screenplay development
  • editing
  • creative workshops

Key Concepts

minimalism reader imagination

Questions to Reflect On

  • How much detail is enough for character clarity?
  • When does description enhance vs. hinder narrative?
A Different Perspective

Excessive brevity may leave readers unclear about key visual cues.

2.7 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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