Donald Murray Quotes & Sayings

How to read writers on writing: With respect, amusement, and skepticism. They will contradict one another-as they should-for each writer brings an individual history to the writing task. There is no single theology here. — Donald Murray

The longer I write, the more important I believe it is to write the first draft as fast as possible. In drafting, I push myself so I am at the edge of discomfort ... Later, it will be time for consideration and reconsideration, slow, careful revision and editing. But on the first draft I have to achieve velocity, just as you do if you want the bike to balance. — Donald Murray

Don't market yourself. Editors and readers don't know what they want until they see it. Scratch what itches. Write what you need to write, feed the hunger for meaning in your life. Play at the serious questions of life and death. — Donald Murray

Live simply", she said. "Don't expect so much out of life. You can only be disappointed when your expectations are not met so strive for the best but keep your expectations simple." I — Donald Murray

Even the most productive writers are expert dawdlers. — Donald Murray