I'm just trying to write a good story, strictly from imagination. People just think it's random, they don't see the rewriting, phrasing of characters, choosing the words, bringing the world to light in which the characters live in. That creates an illusion that this is real.

The quote, "I'm just trying to write a good story, strictly from imagination. People just think it's random, they don't see the rewriting, phrasing of characters, choosing the words, bringing the world to light in which the characters live in. That creates an illusion that this is real," comes from Eric Jerome Dickey, an American author known for his works of contemporary fiction, particularly in the genres of romance, urban fiction, and thrillers. In this statement, Dickey reflects on the creative process behind his storytelling, emphasizing that writing a compelling story is not a random or effortless task, but rather a deliberate act of imagination and craft.

Dickey explains that the imagination plays a central role in the creation of his stories. He draws attention to the often unseen, labor-intensive aspects of writing, such as rewriting, carefully phrasing characters, and choosing the right words. These elements are critical to shaping the narrative and ensuring that the world in which the characters live feels authentic and real to the reader, even though it is entirely the product of the writer's creative mind.

The statement also highlights the idea that readers often perceive a story as being spontaneous or random, without recognizing the amount of work that goes into creating the illusion of reality. Dickey acknowledges that the process of building a world, developing characters, and refining dialogue is what allows a fictional story to resonate with readers, making them believe in the characters and the world they inhabit. This careful craftsmanship is what ultimately makes the story feel alive and believable.

Ultimately, Dickey’s quote reveals the importance of craft in storytelling. While imagination is the driving force behind his work, the precision and attention to detail in the writing process are what bring the story to life. He emphasizes that the illusion of reality in fiction is not random, but the result of thoughtful, intentional work that makes the reader engage with the story as if it were real.