Meaning: This quote by Janet Flanner, a prominent American journalist and writer, beautifully captures the essence of the writing process. In just a few words, Flanner manages to convey the dedication and tenacity required to perfect a sentence, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail and the relentless pursuit of perfection that writers often experience.

"I keep going over a sentence" suggests the act of revisiting and scrutinizing a sentence, indicating a deep commitment to refining and perfecting one's writing. This sentiment resonates with many writers who understand the importance of crafting each sentence with care and precision. Flanner's use of the word "keep" implies a continuous and ongoing process, emphasizing the iterative nature of writing and the need for relentless revision and refinement.

"I nag it, gnaw it, pat and flatter it" vividly portrays the range of emotions and actions involved in the writer's relationship with a sentence. The verbs "nag" and "gnaw" evoke a sense of persistence and determination, reflecting the writer's refusal to settle for mediocrity. These words also suggest a sense of unease or dissatisfaction with the sentence in its current form, driving the writer to seek improvement.

On the other hand, the verbs "pat and flatter" introduce a contrasting tone, hinting at moments of tenderness and admiration for the sentence. This duality in the writer's approach mirrors the complex and often conflicting emotions that writers experience as they strive to perfect their work. The act of "patting and flattering" a sentence implies a nurturing and supportive attitude, indicating the writer's desire to coax out its potential and celebrate its strengths.

Flanner's use of personification in describing the sentence as something to be nagged, gnawed, patted, and flattered imbues it with a sense of life and personality, underscoring the intimate and intricate relationship between the writer and their words. This portrayal also emphasizes the writer's deep investment in the creative process, where each sentence becomes a living entity that demands attention and care.

Overall, Flanner's quote encapsulates the arduous yet rewarding journey of writing, where every word and sentence is subjected to relentless scrutiny and refinement. It speaks to the writer's unwavering commitment to honing their craft and the emotional complexity inherent in the process of creation. Through this quote, Flanner offers a poignant glimpse into the inner world of a writer, where sentences are not mere words on a page, but living, breathing entities that demand to be molded and perfected.