Meaning: Colleen McCullough, an acclaimed author best known for her novel "The Thorn Birds," shared her writing process in the quote, emphasizing the importance of multiple drafts in the creation of a polished piece of work. McCullough's approach to writing reflects the meticulous and iterative nature of the creative process, offering valuable insights into the dedication and effort required to produce high-quality literature.

In her statement, McCullough underscores the significance of the first draft as the initial step in the writing journey. The act of getting the initial ideas and storyline down on paper marks the commencement of the creative process. However, she goes on to highlight that this is just the beginning, as she follows up with a series of five or six additional drafts. This iterative approach to writing is indicative of the dedication and commitment that McCullough brings to her craft.

The quote also sheds light on the specific objectives of the subsequent drafts. McCullough mentions that the intermediate drafts serve to flesh out the characters and potentially verify the accuracy of her research. This attention to detail and character development demonstrates her commitment to creating rich, multi-dimensional personas and ensuring the authenticity of the narrative. By revisiting and refining the characters, McCullough strives to imbue them with depth and complexity, enhancing the overall quality of her work.

Furthermore, McCullough's mention of the last two drafts as polishing drafts highlights her dedication to refining and perfecting the manuscript. These final stages of the writing process are crucial in ensuring that the work is polished to a high standard, with attention to language, structure, and coherence. Through these polishing drafts, McCullough demonstrates her commitment to delivering a refined and meticulously crafted final product.

McCullough's approach to writing aligns with the experiences of many authors and creative professionals who understand the value of multiple drafts in the pursuit of excellence. The iterative nature of her process reflects a commitment to continuous improvement and a willingness to invest the time and effort necessary to refine her work.

In summary, Colleen McCullough's quote provides valuable insights into her approach to writing, emphasizing the importance of multiple drafts and the meticulous attention to detail required to produce high-quality literature. Her dedication to revising, refining, and polishing her work serves as a testament to the rigorous and iterative nature of the creative process. By sharing her writing process, McCullough offers aspiring writers and literature enthusiasts a glimpse into the dedication and effort required to produce exceptional literary works.