“Crossing out is an art that is, perhaps, even more difficult than writing. It requires the sharpest eye to decide what is superfluous and must be removed. And it requires ruthlessness toward yourself — the greatest ruthlessness and self-sacrifice. You must know how to sacrifice parts in the name of the whole.”
“It is worth mentioning, for future reference, that the creative power which bubbles so pleasantly in beginning a new book quiets down after a time, and one goes on more steadily. Doubts creep in. Then one becomes resigned. Determination not to give in, and the sense of an impending shape keep one at it more than anything.”
“Only amateurs say that they write for their own amusement. Writing is not an amusing occupation. It is a combination of ditch-digging, mountain-climbing, treadmill and childbirth… But amusing? Never.”
“It’s none of their business that you have to learn how to write. Let them think you were born that way.”
“Everything stinks till it’s finished.”
What do we look like today?
The winner of Alison Kent’s Sunday prize pack is: Joy Renee (Joy - email Alison with your mailing address!)
The starting date for the second Seventy Days of Sweat Writing Challenge will be announced soon!
