Meaning: Margaret Haddix, an accomplished author known for her young adult fiction, provides valuable insight into her writing process with this quote. She emphasizes the importance of taking a break from a completed first draft before revisiting it for revisions. This method allows her to approach the work with a fresh perspective, enabling her to identify areas for improvement and refine the overall quality of the manuscript.

Haddix's approach to completing a first draft within a timeframe of 2-6 months reflects her disciplined and focused work ethic. This initial phase of writing likely involves extensive planning, brainstorming, and dedicated effort to produce a cohesive and comprehensive draft. The duration of 2-6 months suggests that she commits herself to the writing process, ensuring that the manuscript reaches a stage where it can be set aside for further evaluation.

The decision to set aside the first draft for a period of time is a deliberate and strategic choice. By allowing the manuscript to "rest," Haddix creates the necessary distance from her work, which is essential for approaching it with a critical eye during the revision process. This break serves as a means of gaining perspective and objectivity, as she can return to the material with a fresh mindset, free from the immediacy of the writing process.

The concept of reading the draft with "fresh eyes" highlights the significance of detachment and renewal in the revision process. Haddix recognizes that an author's close involvement with the initial creation of the manuscript can sometimes result in a lack of objectivity. By taking a step back and returning to the work after a hiatus, she can more effectively evaluate its strengths and weaknesses, identifying areas for enhancement and refinement.

Haddix's emphasis on figuring out how to improve the draft underscores her commitment to producing high-quality work. This dedication to the craft of writing is indicative of her conscientious approach to storytelling and her desire to offer readers a polished and engaging final product. The revision stage is crucial in honing the narrative, developing characters, and strengthening the overall structure of the manuscript.

Overall, Haddix's quote encapsulates the disciplined approach and thoughtful methodology that underpin her writing process. Her willingness to invest time and effort in the creation of a first draft, followed by a purposeful period of reflection and revision, speaks to her commitment to producing literature of the highest caliber. By sharing her insights, Haddix provides aspiring writers with valuable guidance on the importance of patience, perseverance, and the revision process in the pursuit of literary excellence.

In conclusion, Margaret Haddix's quote offers a glimpse into her creative process and the deliberate steps she takes to refine her writing. From the initial drafting phase to the subsequent period of reflection and revision, Haddix's approach reflects a dedication to craftsmanship and a commitment to delivering compelling and polished narratives to her readers. Aspiring writers can draw inspiration from her disciplined work ethic and strategic approach to the revision process, recognizing the value of taking a step back to gain fresh perspective and enhance the overall quality of their work.