If you're writing a screenplay, you need to be prepared to let go: there's a good chance the words you write aren't going to be the ones that end up on screen.

The quote by Meg Cabot emphasizes the importance of flexibility and acceptance in the process of screenwriting. She suggests that when writing a screenplay, one must be prepared to let go of the words they’ve written because there’s a strong possibility that the final version on screen won’t exactly reflect what was originally scripted. This highlights the collaborative nature of filmmaking, where directors, actors, and other members of the team contribute to shaping the final product, often leading to significant changes from the original script.

The meaning centers on the understanding that creative work—especially in film—is an evolving process. Cabot stresses that screenwriters must be open to revisions and adaptations in order for the script to align with the vision of the entire production. It reflects a more pragmatic view of the screenwriting process, acknowledging that not every idea will make it to the screen as originally envisioned, and that this is simply part of the journey in creating a film.

The origin of this statement comes from Cabot’s experience as an author and screenwriter, where she has worked on both writing novels and adapting them into screenplays. Her comment likely stems from her own experiences with adaptations and the challenges of seeing her written work change during the filmmaking process. As someone who has transitioned from writing books to screenwriting, Cabot has gained insight into the realities of turning a written story into a visual narrative.

By acknowledging that the screenplay you write may not match the final product, Cabot advises writers to focus on the larger goal—telling a compelling story—rather than fixating on every word. Her words remind us that creativity often requires adaptability and that the collaborative nature of filmmaking can lead to a better and more polished final result, even if it differs from the original script.