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.
I have lived some thirty years on this planet, and I have yet to hear the first syllable of valuable or even earnest advice from my seniors.
Knowledge does not mean mastering a great quantity of different information, but understanding the nature of mind. This knowledge can penetrate each one of our thoughts and illuminate each one of our perceptions.
They will envy you for your success, your wealth, for your intelligence, for your looks, for your status - but rarely for your wisdom.
Past is dead Future is uncertain; Present is all you have, So eat, drink and live merry.
And our wise Father in heaven knows when we're going to need things too. Don't run out ahead of Him.
There is no satisfying the senses, not even with a shower of money. "The senses are of slight pleasure and really suffering." When a wise man has realised this, he takes no pleasure, as a disciple of the Buddhas, even in the pleasures of heaven. Instead he takes pleasure in the elimination of craving.
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