Meaning: The quote "I suppress the vast majority of what I write" by George Murray, a Canadian poet, encapsulates the struggle that many writers face when it comes to editing and refining their work. This quote speaks to the process of self-censorship and critical evaluation that writers undergo as they seek to produce their best work.

In the creative process, writers often generate a large volume of material as they explore ideas, experiment with language, and attempt to capture their thoughts and emotions. However, not all of this material will be of equal quality or relevance to the writer's intended message or theme. As a result, writers must make choices about what to keep and what to discard in order to create a cohesive and impactful piece of writing.

Murray's quote suggests that he, like many other writers, undergoes a rigorous process of self-editing and self-censorship. This process involves critically evaluating his own work and making the difficult decision to "suppress" or set aside the vast majority of what he writes. This highlights the importance of discernment and self-critique in the writing process, as writers must be willing to let go of material that does not serve the overall purpose or vision of their work.

The act of suppression in writing also speaks to the notion of restraint and selectivity. It implies that writers must exercise discipline and discernment in choosing which ideas, words, and phrases to include in their final work. This process of suppression is not about erasing or dismissing the value of the discarded material, but rather about streamlining and refining the writing to enhance its impact and cohesiveness.

Murray's quote also sheds light on the vulnerability and self-doubt that writers often experience. The decision to suppress the majority of one's writing requires a willingness to confront and acknowledge the limitations of one's own work. It requires writers to grapple with the fear of letting go of potentially valuable material and to confront the uncertainty of whether their chosen words and ideas will resonate with their audience.

Furthermore, the quote suggests that the act of suppression is not merely a solitary or isolated process, but rather an integral part of the writer's craft. It is a fundamental aspect of the writer's commitment to honing their skills and producing work of the highest quality. This process of suppression is not a sign of failure or inadequacy, but rather a testament to the writer's dedication to the art of writing and their pursuit of excellence.

In conclusion, George Murray's quote "I suppress the vast majority of what I write" encapsulates the challenging and essential process of self-editing and self-censorship that writers undergo. It speaks to the discipline, discernment, vulnerability, and dedication that are inherent in the writer's craft. By acknowledging the necessity of suppression in writing, Murray highlights the writer's ongoing quest to refine and elevate their work, ultimately producing writing that is impactful and resonant.