Meaning: This quote by Harold Ross, the founding editor of The New Yorker, captures an anecdote about the renowned American humorist and short story writer Ring Lardner. The quote sheds light on Lardner's approach to writing short stories, offering insight into his creative process. The statement suggests that Lardner employed a method of initially jotting down a few disconnected words or phrases before returning to expand and fill in the spaces to craft his narratives.

Ring Lardner was a prominent figure in American literature during the early 20th century, known for his distinctive writing style and satirical take on contemporary society. His short stories often delved into the complexities of human interactions, particularly within the context of sports, marriage, and the changing dynamics of American life. Lardner's works were characterized by their sharp wit, irony, and astute observations of human behavior.

Harold Ross's inquiry into Lardner's writing process provides a glimpse into the idiosyncratic methods employed by writers to bring their creative visions to life. By revealing Lardner's unconventional approach, the quote underscores the diversity of writing processes and the individualized nature of artistic creation. It highlights the fact that there is no singular formula for crafting compelling narratives, and that each writer may develop their own unique techniques to harness their creativity.

The notion of starting with a few "widely separated words or phrases" aligns with the concept of fragmentary or non-linear writing, a method often associated with stimulating creativity and encouraging unconventional thinking. This approach allows for the exploration of disparate ideas and the generation of unexpected connections, which can infuse a narrative with depth and complexity. Lardner's method suggests an organic and intuitive approach to storytelling, where the initial fragments serve as the seeds from which the narrative gradually blooms and takes shape.

Moreover, the quote implies an element of spontaneity and improvisation in Lardner's creative process. By beginning with disconnected words or phrases, Lardner may have embraced a form of free association, allowing his thoughts to flow without the constraints of a predetermined structure. This organic and fluid approach to writing can lead to surprising discoveries and innovative storytelling techniques, ultimately contributing to the richness of Lardner's narratives.

Additionally, the quote offers valuable insight into the role of revision and refinement in the creative process. Lardner's method of filling in the spaces after jotting down initial fragments underscores the iterative nature of writing. It suggests that the initial burst of creativity, represented by the scattered words or phrases, is followed by a deliberate process of revisiting, expanding, and honing the narrative to achieve coherence and resonance.

In conclusion, Harold Ross's anecdote about Ring Lardner's approach to writing short stories provides a window into the nuanced and inventive nature of the creative process. Lardner's method, as described in the quote, reflects the fluidity, spontaneity, and iterative nature of storytelling, highlighting the diverse pathways through which writers bring their narratives to life. By embracing the use of disconnected fragments as a starting point and subsequently filling in the spaces, Lardner's approach exemplifies the artistry and craftsmanship inherent in the creation of compelling short stories.