Intelligence Quote by William Faulkner
““If you write something that you love beyond all reason, it is wrong and you should strike it out.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Light in August, 1932
Writing driven by irrational passion can betray craft and truth, so it should be removed.
In simple terms: Passionate but unreasonable writing is flawed.
Key Takeaway
Edit out irrational work.
Themes
craft
integrity
self‑criticism
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
advice
literary
When to use this quote
- novel drafting
- journal writing
- editing
- self‑review
Key Concepts
literary standards
creative discipline
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you distinguish passion from reason in your work?
- How can you channel love for a piece without compromising quality?
A Different Perspective
Creative impulse can be valuable if harnessed, not discarded.
