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About this quote

What does it mean?
The author feels full of inspiration and clarity before writing a book.
In plain terms
When starting to write, the author feels very clear about the book they will make.
What can you take from it?
Clarity of vision often precedes the act of creation.

Where it applies

  • writing project
  • planning
  • artistic creation

Putting it to work

  • plan before writing
  • trust your vision
  • start creative work

Questions to consider

  • Do you feel clear before starting a project?
  • How does inspiration feel to you?

Another view

The initial vision may not survive the actual writing process.

More from Georg Christoph Lichtenberg

  1. A book is a mirror: if an ape looks into it an apostle is hardly likely to look out. We have no words for speaking of wisdom to the stupid. He who understands …

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  2. The great rule: If the little bit you have is nothing special in itself, at least find a way of saying it that is a little bit special.

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  3. Be wary of passing the judgment: obscure. To find something obscure poses no difficulty: elephants and poodles find many things obscure.

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