Editing is a lot about patience and discipline and just banging away at something, turning off the machine and going home at night because you're frustrated and depressed, and then coming back in the morning to try again.

In this quote, Thelma Schoonmaker reflects on the challenges and demands of editing in the filmmaking process. She describes the work of editing as requiring immense patience and discipline, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in the face of frustration. Schoonmaker highlights how editing often involves long, meticulous hours spent refining footage, which can feel repetitive and emotionally taxing. The reference to "banging away at something" suggests that editing is a laborious process, where the editor continuously works through material, often feeling like progress is slow.

Schoonmaker also touches on the emotional side of editing, explaining how it can lead to feelings of frustration and depression when the work doesn't seem to come together as expected. The mention of turning off the machine and going home at night indicates that editors, like other creatives, need time away from their work to recharge. It reflects the mental exhaustion that comes with trying to solve complex problems or make creative decisions that align with the vision of the film.

However, the quote concludes with an element of hope and resilience, as Schoonmaker explains that the next day, the editor returns to the work to try again. This conveys that editing, despite its challenges, is a process of constant revision and refinement, requiring both commitment and a willingness to embrace setbacks as part of the creative journey. The cycle of frustration and return underscores the perseverance required to achieve the best possible result.

Ultimately, Schoonmaker’s quote emphasizes that editing is not just a technical skill, but a mental and emotional process that demands both discipline and patience. It highlights the dedication that editors bring to their craft, as well as the resilience needed to overcome creative and emotional hurdles in the pursuit of perfection.