The faster I write the better my output. If I'm going slow, I'm in trouble. It means I'm pushing the words instead of being pulled by them.
Interpretation
Writing flow improves with speed; slowing down indicates trouble due to a lack of inspiration.
This quote by Raymond Chandler reflects the idea that a natural and free-flowing writing process leads to better results. When a writer is able to write quickly and effortlessly, it suggests that the ideas are flowing from their imagination rather than being forced, indicating a more authentic and creative output. Conversely, when a writer finds themselves writing slowly, it highlights a struggle to connect with their inner voice and creativity, often resulting in inferior work.
In practice
In a workshop on writing techniques, I might say, 'Remember, as Raymond Chandler said, 'The faster I write, the better my output' to encourage students to embrace their writing flow.
Undoubtedly the stories about them [hard-boiled detectives] had a fantastic element. Such things happened, but not so rapidly, nor to so close-knit a group of people, nor within so narrow a frame of logic. This was inevitable because the demand was for constant action; if you stopped to think you were lost. When in doubt, have a man come through a door with a gun in his hand.
There was a desert wind blowing that night. It was one of those hot dry Santa Anas that come down through the mountain passes and curl your hair and make your nerves jump and your skin itch. On nights like that every booze party ends in a fight. Meek little wives feel the edge of the carving knife and study their husbands' necks. Anything can happen. You can even get a full glass of beer at a cocktail lounge.
Organized crime is the dirty side of the sharp dollar.
When in doubt, have a man come through the door with a gun in his hand.
The flood of print has turned reading into a process of gulping rather than savoring.
If my books had been any worse, I should not have been invited to Hollywood, and if they had been any better, I should not have come.
Ignorance is not too dangerous. If you combine it with power, then this is a toxic mix.
Money is like manure. It stinks when you pile it; it grows when you spread it
Is the distinction between living for Christ and dying for Him so great? Is not the second the logical conclusion of the first?
I feel like you get more bees with honey. But that doesn't mean I don't get frustrated in my life. My way of dealing with frustration is to shut down and to think and speak logically.
Self-worth is an understanding on the intellectual level, trusting at the heart level, and accepting at the soul level that you are worthy just because you believe that you are. Your worthiness is proven by your existence. Your breathing. The beating of your heart. Your mere presence is all that is needed to establish your worth.
You've got to get out and pray to the sky to appreciate the sunshine; otherwise you're just a lizard standing there with the sun shining on you.
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