4 ms·
reminded me of this great piece of writing advice from Simpsons writer John Swartzwelder: " I do have a trick that makes things easier for me. Since writing is
by weeblewobble 5y ago
reminded me of this great piece of writing advice from Simpsons writer John Swartzwelder:
" I do have a trick that makes things easier for me. Since writing is very hard and rewriting is comparatively easy and rather fun, I always write my scripts all the way through as fast as I can, the first day, if possible, putting in crap jokes and pattern dialogue—“Homer, I don’t want you to do that.” “Then I won’t do it.” Then the next day, when I get up, the script’s been written. It’s lousy, but it’s a script. The hard part is done. It’s like a crappy little elf has snuck into my office and badly done all my work for me, and then left with a tip of his crappy hat. All I have to do from that point on is fix it. So I’ve taken a very hard job, writing, and turned it into an easy one, rewriting, overnight. I advise all writers to do their scripts and other writing this way. And be sure to send me a small royalty every time you do it."
- iainctduncan 5y agoI use this technique for my work writing, I first read about it as "vomit draft". When you give yourself permission to write a truly vomitous first draft, man it's easier. Even if you completely rewrite it, it's a fantastic way to get your thoughts in order.
- robotresearcher 5y ago"In most projects, the first system built is barely usable....Hence plan to throw one away; you will, anyhow." Fred Brooks, The Mythical Man-Month
- borepop 5y agoSee also Anne Lamott's theory of Shitty First Drafts.