When I write, I feel like an optometrist, constantly flipping between lenses and asking, 'Is this better? Is this?' Slowly, the work comes into focus.
Interpretation
Writing is a process of refinement that requires careful adjustment and evaluation.
In this quote, Nell Scovell compares the act of writing to the work of an optometrist, suggesting that writers, like eye care professionals, must continually adjust and refine their work to find clarity and focus. The metaphor highlights the iterative process of writing, where constant testing and reassessment lead to the final polished piece, emphasizing patience and precision in creative endeavors.
In practice
In a writers' workshop to encourage a friend who is struggling with their draft.
I think, in all fields, there's this motherhood pay penalty where, the second you become a mother - and this is true whether you give birth or adopt - you're perceived to not be as committed to your job. Whereas men are perceived as breadwinners who now need more money and promotions because they're fathers.
If women who don't help women get a special circle in hell, I think women who do help women should get a special cloud in heaven.
The most active lives have so much routine as to preclude progress almost equally with the most inactive.
They tell me what to wear, how to look, what I should say, how I should be. Until recently I had given into that pressure, I lost sight of who I was. I listened to opinions of people and I tried to change who I am because I thought others would accept me for it. And I realized I don't know how to be anything but myself.
A remark generally hurts in proportion to its truth.
Only those who have lived all their lives under the dark clouds of vague, undefined fears can appreciate the joy of a doubting soul suddenly born into the kingdom of reason and free thought.
By becoming the answer to someone's prayer, we often find the answer to our own.
I only hope that He will let me preach to those who have never heard that name Jesus. What else is worthwhile in this life? I have heard of nothing better. 'Lord, send me!'
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.