Most essays I’ve written, there were no second drafts, so it’s interesting to see how much of a difference that second draft makes. That whole equation (2nd draft = 1st draft – 10%), pure genius. Cutting out 10% seemed like a bit much to me, until I saw the revisions he made to The Hotel Story. There are details that sound necessary and fitting in the moment, but when you go back and take some of those out it actually does flow better. I thought it was funny when he made the joke about everyone having a history, but most of it isn’t interesting. I immediately thought of that one person in class that has an impulse to tell any story even the slightest bit related to something the teacher has said. They drag on for what seems like forever, and in the end nothing is gained. No one paid attention and everyone would’ve been just fine not having to endure one more of the countless stories. The same applies to writing; though it may sound good to you it’s important to remember that no one really cares as much as you do. Cut out the unnecessary details and move on, you’ll be doing yourself and everyone else a favor. I’ll definitely remember this concept in my future essays.
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