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Books Quote by Thomas Harris

“Writing novels is the hardest thing I've ever done, including digging irrigation ditches.” quote by Thomas Harris
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“Writing novels is the hardest thing I've ever done, including digging irrigation ditches.”

Thomas Harris

About This Quote

Source Interview: Discussing writing process, 1990s

He likens writing a novel to grueling manual labor, emphasizing its difficulty and the effort required.

In simple terms: Writing is as hard as digging ditches.

Key Takeaway

Respect the craft's difficulty.

Themes

writing hardship creativity discipline

Mood

determined humorous

Type

reflective inspirational

When to use this quote

  • authoring a novel
  • self‑publishing
  • long‑form projects

Key Concepts

creative process labor metaphor authorial struggle

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you sustain motivation?
  • What parallels exist between physical and mental work?
A Different Perspective

Writing can be rewarding despite hardship.

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