I can no more reread my own books than I can watch old home movies or look at snapshots of myself as a child. I wind up sitting on the floor, paralyzed by grief and nostalgia.
Francine ProseRead
What’s strange is how many beginning writers seem to think that grammar is irrelevant, or that they are somehow above or beyond this subject more fit for a schoolchild than the future author of great literature.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of grammar in writing, suggesting that novice writers often underestimate its significance.
Francine Prose's quote highlights a common misconception among beginner writers who believe that grammar is not essential to their craft. She argues that such thinking is misguided, as mastery of grammar is a critical foundation for producing great literature. This reflects a broader theme in the writing community that even the most creative writers must respect the rules of language to effectively communicate their ideas.
Themes
GrammarWritingLiteratureEducationNovice Writers
In practice
Example use cases
A writing class discussing the role of grammar in effective communication.
More from Francine Prose
All quotes →All the elements of good writing depend on the writer's skill in choosing one word instead of another.
Francine ProseRead
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