Writing Speed Differing Opinions: Fast Writer's Rapid Output Sparks Debate.
In the realm of writing, speed can often be a valuable asset. A quick-paced approach to crafting words offers numerous benefits, including increased productivity, enhanced creativity, and the ability to capitalise on timely topics. This style of writing, which helps get initial ideas down without overthinking, can foster creativity and reduce writer's block [1].
Some of the most renowned authors throughout history have demonstrated that speed can coincide with high-quality output. Ernest Hemingway, for instance, was known for his disciplined, fast writing style. He believed that the first draft should be written quickly to capture the essence of the story, leaving polishing for later. This approach contributed to his clear, terse prose [1].
Agatha Christie, the prolific mystery writer, reportedly wrote many of her novels rapidly, sometimes in a matter of weeks, without sacrificing plot complexity or quality [1]. Sylvia Plath, the poet, also wrote poems at a swift pace during periods of intense inspiration, allowing her raw emotions to shape the work without over-editing initially [1].
While fast writing helps harness spontaneous creativity and improve productivity, it can sometimes risk overlooking detail or nuance if not followed by careful revision. However, studies on AI-assisted writing show that rapid drafting combined with subsequent editing can still produce high-quality work. Research indicates that tools like ChatGPT enable faster writing while improving grammar, coherence, and readability when used for revision [4].
The impact of speed on writing quality depends on context and the writer’s process. John D. MacDonald, for example, wrote "The Executioners" (later known as "Cape Fear") in a month [1]. Writing fast avoids self-censorship, as demonstrated by Ray Bradbury, who wrote "Fahrenheit 451" in nine days on a rented typewriter [1].
Writing is a physical exercise, and stopping can make it difficult to get moving again. This was a lesson learned by many writers, including those who honed their craft as newspaper reporters. Writing fast gets the work done sooner, as evidenced by Stephen King, who writes 1,500 words a day every day of the year except his birthday [1].
In professional or deadline-driven contexts, increased speed allows writers to produce more content in less time, boosting efficiency. This is particularly valuable for authors like Isaac Asimov, who authored/edited over 700 books during his career [1].
NaNoWriMo, or National Novel Writing Month, aims to help writers avoid self-flagellation and malingering by encouraging a rapid writing pace. The key was to do the best in the time available, as demonstrated by William Faulkner, who wrote "As I Lay Dying" in six weeks [1].
Mistakes can be fixed during the editing process, as shown by Stephen King, who has published over fifty novels [1]. Simon & Schuster published "The Executioners" in hardback, demonstrating that even rapid writing can lead to successful publication [1].
In summary, fast writing is a powerful tool to quickly capture ideas and increase output. While quality often benefits from deliberate editing following the initial fast draft, combining speed with revision leads to the best results in writing quality and creativity.
Education and self-development can be fostered by adopting a swift writing style, as seen with renowned authors like Ernest Hemingway, Agatha Christie, and Sylvia Plath. Personal growth in writing often stems from not overthinking during the initial draft, allowing for increased productivity and enhancing creativity, similar to the approach taken by these authors.
