I write with pen and paper, my first draft, on legal pads.

Jennifer Egan’s quote reflects her personal writing process, emphasizing that she begins her drafts with pen and paper on legal pads. By mentioning these tools, Egan highlights her preference for a more traditional and tactile approach to writing, as opposed to typing directly on a computer. The act of writing by hand on legal pads suggests a deliberate and reflective process, where the physical act of writing allows her to engage more deeply with her ideas and the flow of her narrative.

The choice of legal pads is particularly notable, as they are often associated with professional or formal contexts, such as business meetings or legal work. Egan’s use of these pads underscores her inclination to create her first drafts in a structured yet personal way, bridging the gap between the creative and the analytical. It’s a method that connects her to the history of writing while still allowing for a sense of spontaneity and freedom in her ideas.

Egan’s statement also emphasizes the importance of drafting and the iterative nature of the writing process. Writing by hand allows for a more organic flow of ideas, where mistakes and revisions are a natural part of shaping the final product. This method contrasts with the often more mechanical process of typing, and suggests that for Egan, the first draft is a crucial phase where she can develop her story without the immediate pressure of digital editing or formatting.

The origin of this quote likely comes from Egan’s own reflections on her creative process as a novelist and storyteller. Known for her innovative work, such as A Visit from the Goon Squad, Egan’s preference for pen and paper connects her to a long tradition of writers who find meaning and inspiration through the physicality of writing. This approach is a testament to her dedication to the craft of writing and the way she cultivates her creative expression from the ground up.