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Books Quote by Stephen King

“One rule of the road not directly stated elsewhere in this book: 'The editor is always right.' The corollary is that no writer will take all of his or her editor’s advice; for all have sinned and fallen short of editorial perfection.” quote by Stephen King
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““One rule of the road not directly stated elsewhere in this book: 'The editor is always right.' The corollary is that no writer will take all of his or her editor’s advice; for all have sinned and fallen short of editorial perfection.””

Stephen King

About This Quote

Editorial authority is a guiding principle, yet writers must balance it with their own judgment because editors are fallible.

In simple terms: Editors guide, but writers must decide.

Key Takeaway

Balance editorial advice with personal voice.

Themes

authority collaboration imperfection creative autonomy decision-making

Mood

pragmatic reflective instructive

Type

advice observation maxim

When to use this quote

  • manuscript revision
  • publishing workflow
  • author-editor meetings
  • self-editing sessions

Key Concepts

editorial process authorial agency quality control

Practical Applications

  • guidelines for editorial feedback
  • training for writers on critical evaluation of edits

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should a writer accept an editor's suggestion?
  • How can editors acknowledge their own limitations?
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