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Writing is a strange and solitary activity. There are dispiriting times when you start working on the first few pages of a novel. Every day, you have the feeling you are on the wrong track. This creates a strong urge to go back and follow a different path. It is important not to give in to this urge but to keep going.
Patrick Modiano
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Writing can feel isolating and discouraging, but persistence is key to overcoming doubts.

This quote highlights the challenges and struggles that writers often face, especially at the beginning of their creative process. The author emphasizes that it's common to feel lost or unsure about the direction of one's work, and the temptation to abandon the current path can be strong; however, enduring through these moments of doubt and continuing to write is crucial for eventual success.

Themes

WritingPersistenceCreativitySolitudeChallenges

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech about overcoming creative blocks.

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The doctor used to tell me that every person about to die becomes a music box playing the melody that best describes his life, his character, and his hopes. For some, it's a popular waltz; for others, a march.
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