You know you’re writing well when you’re throwing good stuff into the wastebasket.

What did Ernest Hemingway mean by:

You know you’re writing well when you’re throwing good stuff into the wastebasket.

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This quote is about the process of refining one’s‍ work, particularly in writing. It suggests⁣ that writing ⁢well involves a lot⁢ of editing, revising, and even‍ discarding of what ⁢might initially seem like “good stuff.” The idea is that the writer must⁣ be willing to‍ let go ​of parts of⁢ their work, ​even if they initially seem valuable or well-written, if⁢ it doesn’t⁢ serve the overall‌ narrative or quality ‌of​ the piece. It’s about being ‌discerning ‌and critical ⁤about one’s own work, and not being overly ‍attached to any particular part of it. It’s a testament to the writer’s commitment to excellence and the ⁣courage to make tough decisions⁤ for the betterment ⁢of the​ work as a whole.

In‌ today’s world, this ​idea can be applied in many areas beyond writing. In the business world, for instance, companies often have to make tough decisions to let go ‌of ⁣projects or products that might be profitable but‍ don’t align⁤ with their long-term ‍strategy or brand identity. Similarly,‍ in personal development, individuals often have to make difficult decisions to let go of habits, ⁤relationships, or pursuits that might be comfortable or enjoyable but aren’t conducive to​ their growth or long-term ⁤goals. It’s about having the ‍discernment to recognize what’s truly valuable and beneficial ⁢in ⁤the long run, and the courage to let go of what’s not, even if it seems “good” in‌ the moment.

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