I always craft my words to the point where I think and hope they're perfect before I ever begin sketching.

The quote "I always craft my words to the point where I think and hope they're perfect before I ever begin sketching" by Kevin Henkes highlights the importance of careful thought and preparation in his creative process. Henkes, a well-known author and illustrator of children's books, is emphasizing the significance of language and word choice in his storytelling. For him, the words are the foundation of the story, and he aims to perfect them before beginning the visual aspect of the creation, sketching the illustrations that will accompany the text.

The origin of this quote lies in Henkes’s approach to writing and illustrating, where he views the written word as a critical starting point for the overall storytelling process. His method reflects a balance between thoughtful writing and visual artistry, where both elements are intertwined but require different stages of careful development. By focusing on perfecting the words first, Henkes ensures that the message and tone of the story are clear and strong before he moves on to the visuals.

Henkes’s statement also reveals his perfectionist nature and his deep respect for the craft of writing. By saying he "hopes they're perfect," he acknowledges that perfection is an elusive goal but strives toward it to make sure the story resonates with clarity and depth. The order in which he works—first with words, then with illustrations—demonstrates his belief that the written content provides the structure and meaning for the accompanying visuals.

Ultimately, this quote underscores the importance of intentionality and careful crafting in the creative process. Henkes’s focus on the words before sketching suggests that a well-developed foundation leads to more cohesive and impactful storytelling, where both the written and visual elements work harmoniously together to communicate the full essence of the story.