I started on computers with 'Billy Bathgate,' a little orange screen with black letters. I thought it was really cool, but it actually slowed me up for a while because it's so easy to revise, I tended to stay on the same page. I've learned to discipline myself.

E. L. Doctorow’s quote reflects his early experience with using computers in his writing process, specifically starting with a "little orange screen" and basic text displayed in black letters. The reference to Billy Bathgate, his novel, shows that Doctorow began using technology in his work long before it became widely adopted by writers. At first, he was fascinated by the convenience of using a computer to write, finding it "really cool" that he could instantly edit and revise his text. However, this ease of revision led to a challenge, as it made him overly focused on fine-tuning individual sections instead of progressing with the story.

Doctorow’s mention of how this easy editing slowed him down points to the potential downside of technology in the creative process. While computers provide an efficient way to make changes, they can also encourage a form of perfectionism where writers get stuck on revising the same part over and over instead of moving forward with the narrative. This experience reflects a common issue many writers face when using digital tools, where the endless ability to adjust and perfect can lead to procrastination and delay in completing the work.

The phrase "I’ve learned to discipline myself" highlights Doctorow’s growth in managing the balance between technology and his creative flow. Over time, he developed the self-discipline necessary to use the computer effectively without getting bogged down by the temptation to constantly revise. This suggests that, while computers can be incredibly useful for writers, they also require a level of control to avoid hindering progress. Doctorow's evolution in how he approached writing with technology demonstrates the importance of adapting one's creative process to new tools.

Originating from Doctorow's experience as a novelist and his pioneering use of computers in literature, the quote highlights the intersection of technology and creativity. It also reflects his broader relationship with innovation and writing, where his embrace of the computer as a tool for writing evolved into a more disciplined, balanced approach. His insight speaks to how writers and creators must adapt to new technologies while maintaining control over their craft.