Meaning: Michael Ondaatje, the Sri Lankan-born Canadian poet and author, is known for his evocative and lyrical writing style. The quote in question sheds light on Ondaatje's creative process and his approach to crafting a story. In this quote, Ondaatje emphasizes the importance of discovering the story first before engaging in the process of restructuring and editing. He acknowledges that while he may make changes and adjustments to the narrative structure later on, the initial focus is on uncovering the essence of the story.

Ondaatje's statement reflects a common sentiment among writers and storytellers – the idea that the creative process is often an exploration and discovery of the narrative. It highlights the notion that the initial stages of crafting a story involve delving into the characters, themes, and events, allowing the story to reveal itself in its own organic manner. This approach aligns with the belief that the best stories are often those that unfold naturally, with the author serving as a conduit for the tale rather than a strict architect.

The quote also touches on the role of editing and restructuring in the creative process. Ondaatje acknowledges that these elements are essential but should come later, emphasizing the importance of allowing the story to take shape before imposing too much editorial control. This perspective underscores the balance between creative freedom and the necessary refinement that occurs during the editorial phase of writing.

Ondaatje's reference to restructuring and moving things around in the story speaks to the fluidity of the writing process. It conveys the idea that a story is not set in stone from the outset, and that part of the artistry of storytelling lies in the ability to shape and mold the narrative as needed. This fluidity allows for the weaving of clues, foreshadowing, and the creation of a cohesive and engaging storytelling experience for the reader.

In practical terms, Ondaatje's approach suggests that the initial phase of writing involves a deep exploration of the story, characters, and themes, without being overly concerned with the finer details of structure and pacing. This open-minded approach to storytelling allows for the emergence of unexpected plot twists, character developments, and thematic nuances that may not have been immediately apparent.

Furthermore, Ondaatje's emphasis on the editorial capacity occurring much later in the process speaks to the idea that the initial drafting phase is primarily about capturing the essence and spirit of the story. It is during the subsequent revisions and edits that the author can fine-tune the narrative, ensuring that the pacing, structure, and foreshadowing align with the overall vision of the story.

In conclusion, Michael Ondaatje's quote provides valuable insight into his creative process and approach to storytelling. It underscores the importance of allowing the story to unfold naturally, while also acknowledging the role of editing and restructuring in shaping a compelling narrative. Ondaatje's perspective serves as a reminder of the dynamic and iterative nature of the writing process, where the initial discovery of the story paves the way for subsequent refinement and editorial intervention.