Don't get it right, just get it written

Don't get it right, just get it written

James Thurber, the renowned American author and cartoonist, is often quoted as saying, "Don't get it right, just get it written." This simple yet profound statement encapsulates Thurber's approach to writing and creativity. Thurber believed that the most important thing for a writer is to get their ideas down on paper, regardless of whether they are perfect or not. He understood that the process of writing is messy and imperfect, and that it is through this process that true creativity can emerge.

Thurber's own writing style was characterized by its wit, humor, and whimsicality. He was known for his short stories, essays, and cartoons that often featured eccentric characters and absurd situations. Thurber's work was a reflection of his unique perspective on the world, and his willingness to embrace the imperfect and the unconventional.

In his essay "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," Thurber tells the story of a meek and daydreaming man who escapes his mundane life through elaborate fantasies. The story is a perfect example of Thurber's ability to blend humor and poignancy, and his willingness to explore the inner lives of his characters. Thurber's writing is not always polished or refined, but it is always honest and authentic.

Thurber's advice to "just get it written" is a reminder to writers that perfection is not the goal. Writing is a process of discovery and exploration, and it is through this process that ideas can take shape and come to life. By focusing on getting their ideas down on paper, writers can free themselves from the constraints of perfectionism and self-doubt, and allow their creativity to flow.

Thurber's own career is a testament to the power of this approach. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, including losing his sight in one eye due to a childhood accident, Thurber continued to write and create until the end of his life. His work has endured for generations, inspiring countless writers and artists to embrace their own unique voices and perspectives.