Meaning: The quote by William Devane, an American actor known for his work in film, television, and theater, touches on the process of writing and the distinction between the initial architectural work of crafting a story and the subsequent task of refining and tweaking individual lines. Devane's statement implies that while he would be willing to help others with their writing by fixing lines if asked, he believes that the most challenging aspect of writing lies in the creation and structuring of the story itself.

When Devane mentions "the hard part of writing is the architecture of it," he is referring to the foundational work involved in crafting a cohesive and compelling narrative. This process encompasses developing characters, establishing plot points, creating a sense of setting, and weaving thematic elements throughout the story. It involves the initial conceptualization and organization of the narrative elements that will form the backbone of the piece. This phase of writing requires a deep understanding of storytelling principles, as well as the ability to construct a framework that will engage and captivate the audience.

Additionally, Devane highlights the importance of "getting the story and structuring it," emphasizing the significance of a well-crafted narrative structure. This aspect of writing involves determining the pacing of the story, establishing a clear beginning, middle, and end, and ensuring that the plot unfolds in a coherent and engaging manner. Structuring a story also involves making decisions about point of view, narrative voice, and the arrangement of scenes to create a cohesive and impactful overall narrative arc.

In contrast to the architectural work of writing, Devane downplays "the tweaking of lines" as a less challenging aspect of the writing process. By referring to the "tweaking of lines," he is alluding to the process of fine-tuning individual sentences, dialogue, and prose. While this stage of writing is undoubtedly important for refining the language and style of the work, Devane suggests that it is secondary to the foundational work of crafting the story and its structure.

Devane's perspective on writing reflects a recognition of the multifaceted nature of the creative process. While the crafting of a story's architecture requires a deep understanding of narrative construction and thematic development, the polishing and refining of individual lines demand a keen eye for language and style. His willingness to assist others by fixing lines if asked demonstrates a recognition of the collaborative nature of writing, where feedback and support from peers can contribute to the overall quality of a piece.

Ultimately, Devane's quote serves as a reminder of the complex and iterative nature of the writing process. It underscores the importance of both the foundational work of crafting a compelling narrative and the attention to detail required for refining and perfecting the language and style of the writing. By acknowledging the challenges inherent in each aspect of the writing process, Devane offers insight into the dedication and skill required to create impactful and resonant storytelling.