Meaning: Andrew Greeley, a well-known clergyman, has provided an insightful perspective on the process of writing in the above quote. In his statement, Greeley expresses his ease in writing, particularly in the context of novel writing. According to him, the characters in a novel play a significant role in the creation of the narrative. He suggests that the characters "take over" and guide the direction of the story, informing the author of what they want to say and do. Greeley further elaborates that as he progresses through a novel, the characters essentially "finish it" for him. This quote sheds light on the dynamic and interactive nature of the writing process, where characters come to life and influence the storyline.

Greeley's assertion that he writes easily and that characters take over in a novel reflects a fascinating perspective on the creative process. It highlights the notion that the act of writing is not merely a solitary endeavor, but rather a collaborative and organic interaction between the author and the characters they create. By stating that the characters "tell" him what to say and do, Greeley emphasizes the autonomy and agency of these fictional individuals. This perspective challenges the traditional view of authors as the sole architects of their narratives and suggests that the characters themselves play an active role in shaping the story.

The concept of characters taking on a life of their own and guiding the narrative is not unique to Greeley's experience. Many authors have described similar phenomena, often referring to it as the characters "writing themselves" or "taking control" of the story. This phenomenon is often associated with a deep immersion in the fictional world and a keen understanding of the characters' motivations and personalities. When authors are able to fully grasp the essence of their characters, it allows for a more authentic and organic development of the narrative, as the characters' actions and dialogue flow naturally from their traits and experiences.

Greeley's approach to novel writing also touches upon the concept of "discovery writing" or "pantsing" (from the phrase "flying by the seat of one's pants"). This writing style involves minimal planning and outlining, allowing the narrative to unfold organically as the author delves into the story. Instead of meticulously plotting out every detail, discovery writers often rely on the spontaneity and creativity of the writing process, allowing the characters and the story to evolve in unexpected ways.

Furthermore, Greeley's statement hints at the underlying mystery and unpredictability of the creative process. By acknowledging that he lets the characters finish the novel for him, he acknowledges the unpredictable nature of the creative journey. This willingness to surrender control and allow the characters to drive the narrative reflects a deep trust in the organic flow of storytelling. It also speaks to the interconnectedness of the author's creative intuition and the characters' agency within the fictional world.

In conclusion, Andrew Greeley's quote provides a thought-provoking insight into the intricate dynamics of novel writing. By acknowledging the influential role of characters in shaping the narrative and expressing his willingness to relinquish control to them, Greeley offers a compelling perspective on the collaborative and organic nature of the creative process. His words resonate with writers and readers alike, inviting contemplation on the mysterious and captivating process of bringing fictional worlds to life.