Meaning: This quote by Donald McKay, a designer, provides insight into his creative process as a writer. McKay's approach to writing reflects a sense of spontaneity and urgency, as he emphasizes the importance of capturing his thoughts quickly before engaging in a reflective and critical examination of his own writing. In essence, he describes a cyclical process of creation and critique, where the initial outpouring of words is followed by a deliberate and analytical review of the content.

The first part of the quote, "I write when the urge hits me, getting the words down as fast as I can type," suggests that McKay's writing process is driven by inspiration and a sense of immediacy. This emphasizes the organic nature of creativity, where ideas and words flow freely and rapidly when the creative impulse strikes. The emphasis on speed and urgency implies a desire to capture the raw essence of the thought or idea before it dissipates.

Following this initial burst of creative energy, McKay describes "a dialectical process where I begin challenging my own writing." Here, he introduces the concept of dialectics, a method of discourse between two or more people holding different points of view about a subject, but here it's applied to the internal dialogue within the writer's mind. This process involves engaging in a critical examination of his own work, questioning and challenging the ideas and words he has just expressed. This reflects a conscious effort to refine and improve the initial output by subjecting it to rigorous self-critique.

McKay's approach to writing can be seen as a reflection of the creative tension that often exists within the artistic process. The juxtaposition of spontaneous expression and critical analysis underscores the dynamic nature of creativity, where the interplay between inspiration and introspection drives the evolution of ideas and their expression.

This quote also sheds light on the iterative nature of the writing process. By describing the act of stepping back from the initial outpouring of words, McKay emphasizes the importance of distancing oneself from the immediate creative act in order to gain perspective. This act of stepping back allows for a more objective evaluation of the work, enabling the writer to identify areas for improvement and revision.

Additionally, the use of the term "dialectical process" suggests that McKay's approach to self-critique is not merely a matter of identifying flaws, but rather a method of engaging in a deeper exploration and refinement of his own ideas. This dialectical process implies a form of intellectual rigor, where the writer actively challenges and interrogates his own assumptions and assertions, ultimately leading to a more nuanced and sophisticated expression of his thoughts.

In conclusion, Donald McKay's quote offers valuable insights into the creative process of writing. His emphasis on capturing the initial inspiration swiftly, followed by a rigorous process of self-examination and refinement, highlights the dynamic and iterative nature of the artistic endeavor. This approach serves as a reminder of the importance of both spontaneity and critical reflection in the pursuit of creative expression.