Meaning: Marilyn Hacker, a prominent American poet, succinctly captures her writing process in this quote. She emphasizes the importance of consistency by stating, "I try to write everyday," indicating her commitment to the craft. This dedication to daily writing is a common practice among many successful writers, as it helps to maintain a creative flow and discipline. Hacker also acknowledges the challenges of balancing her writing with her teaching responsibilities, suggesting that her writing routine is more productive when she is not teaching.

Hacker's emphasis on rewriting underscores the iterative nature of the writing process. She mentions, "I always rewrite, usually fairly close-on which is to say first draft," revealing that her initial drafts are subject to multiple revisions. This approach aligns with the widely accepted belief that writing is a process of constant refinement and improvement. By acknowledging the necessity of rewriting, Hacker exemplifies the diligence required to produce quality work.

Furthermore, Hacker's practice of setting aside her work for 24 hours before revisiting it reflects the importance of gaining perspective. This step allows her to approach her writing with fresh eyes, enabling her to identify areas for improvement and make more objective assessments. It also demonstrates her patience and commitment to producing the best possible work, as she is willing to invest time and effort into the revision process.

Marilyn Hacker's quote provides valuable insights into the writing process and the discipline required to excel as a writer. Her dedication to daily writing, commitment to rewriting, and the deliberate approach to revising her work serve as an inspiration to aspiring writers. It also highlights the ongoing nature of the writing process and the importance of persistence and self-critique.

Marilyn Hacker, born in 1942, is known for her formal and innovative poetry that often explores themes of feminism, sexuality, and social justice. She has been a significant figure in contemporary American poetry, receiving numerous awards and accolades for her work. Hacker's writing reflects a deep engagement with language and a keen awareness of the power of words to convey complex emotions and ideas.

In addition to her accomplishments as a poet, Hacker has also been involved in teaching and mentoring aspiring writers. Her experience as an educator likely informs her observation about the challenges of maintaining a consistent writing practice while teaching. This insight adds depth to her quote, as it reflects the real-world complexities that writers often face in balancing their creative pursuits with other professional commitments.

Overall, Marilyn Hacker's quote encapsulates the dedication, discipline, and willingness to revise that are essential to the writing process. Her commitment to daily writing, rigorous approach to rewriting, and thoughtful strategy of setting aside her work for reflection offer valuable lessons for writers at all levels. By sharing her writing process, Hacker provides a glimpse into the mindset of a successful poet and offers guidance that aspiring writers can incorporate into their own creative practices.

In conclusion, Marilyn Hacker's quote serves as a reminder of the dedication and perseverance required to excel in the writing craft. Her insights into the iterative nature of writing, the importance of self-critique, and the discipline of daily practice offer valuable lessons for aspiring writers. Through her words, Hacker imparts wisdom that can inspire and guide writers on their own creative journeys.