Roddy Doyle Writing Quotations

When I was growing up, the exam system didn't allow you to write fiction, so you never did.

I tend to plan as I write. And I want to leave myself open and the character open to keep on going until it seems to be the time to stop.

Schools don't really allow failure and yet it's part of any endeavour, not just writing.

I write short stories when a little idea occurs to me, that I know isn't a part of a novel that will stand by itself and should be concentrated.

Do be kind to yourself. Fill pages as quickly as possible; double space, or write on every second line. Regard every new page as a small triumph, until you get to page 50. Then calm down, and start worrying about the quality. Do feel anxiety - it's the job.

When I'm writing I just think there's only the page and me and nobody else.