"A writer's only certainty is novelty."
This quote by David Morrell highlights the inherent unpredictability and evolving nature of the writing process. As a writer continually seeks fresh ideas and original perspectives, "novelty" represents the one aspect that can be relied upon - the need to create something new and different. It underscores the importance of innovation, growth, and the pursuit of unique narratives in the world of literature.
"Fear can be a useful ally, but only if it doesn't make you stupid."
This quote emphasizes that fear, when properly managed, can serve as a valuable motivator or guide in our lives. However, letting fear dominate us without rational thought can lead to irrational decisions or inaction, ultimately hindering our progress. Therefore, the wise use of fear involves finding a balance between respecting its cautionary signals while still making logical and informed choices that move us forward.
"When you write, you risk catching things like imagination. Better to catch nothing than to be unoriginal."
David Morrell's quote emphasizes the importance of originality in writing. He suggests that the act of writing carries a risk - the risk of being imaginative, creative, and unique - qualities that set one's work apart from others. In his view, it is better to produce nothing original than to mimic or imitate the works of others, thus compromising one's own voice and style. This quote encourages writers to embrace their individuality and strive for authentic creativity in their writing endeavors.
"A writer should always be writing and not just when inspiration strikes."
This quote by David Morrell emphasizes the importance of discipline in the craft of writing. It suggests that writers should make writing a consistent habit, not solely relying on fleeting moments of inspiration. Writing regularly helps to cultivate skills, improve creativity, and develop a unique voice. Consistency is key in maintaining progress and staying productive as a writer.
"The more you learn about the craft of fiction, the better you can serve your imagination."
David Morrell's quote highlights the importance of understanding the technical aspects of writing to effectively express one's creative ideas. By mastering the craft of storytelling, writers can better channel their imaginative thoughts into coherent and impactful narratives. Essentially, a strong grasp of writing techniques empowers authors to serve their imagination more effectively.
I have a graduate degree from Penn State. I studied at Penn State under a noted Hemingway scholar, Philip Young. I had an interest in thrillers, and it occurred to me that Hemingway wrote many action scenes: the war scenes in 'A Farewell to Arms' and 'For Whom the Bell Tolls' come to mind. But the scenes don't feel pulpy.
- David Morrell
I use these senses - touch, sight, feel and smell - as triggers that invite readers or propel them into the scene. The trick is not to make it obvious. I've written an entire chapter about this in my book, 'The Successful Novelist.' I've lectured about it extensively, but have yet to see many people pick up on it.
- David Morrell
One of the advantages of having gone to Penn State was having had a scholar for a mentor - Philip Young. Also, a professional writer named Philip Klass taught there. He was a science fiction writer whose pseudonym was William Tenn. As a professional writer, he brought wisdom to teaching because he'd done it for a living.
- David Morrell
My son died from cancer. My granddaughter died from cancer. I have a lot of reasons to think that reality is not a friendly neighborhood. And the stories that I tell distract me, and if I do the job right, they distract people from things that are happening to them that they wish had never happened.
- David Morrell
Some people might be surprised that 'Rambo's creator has a doctorate in American literature. One of my influences is Henry James, whose major theme is awareness. Whether I'm writing about military personnel, law enforcement, or De Quincey, the persistent theme is paying attention in a hostile world.
- David Morrell
Anybody who sits down to write, and they think 'thriller,' maybe shouldn't be thinking that way. Maybe we should be thinking 'novel,' maybe 'thriller' way in the background, but that these are real people to whom things are happening. It just happens to be a hell of an exciting story.
- David Morrell
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