You know, my first three or four drafts, you can see, are on legal pads in long hand. And then I go to a typewriter, and I know everybody's switching to a computer. And I'm sort of laughed at.

The quote by Robert Caro reflects his distinctive approach to writing and research, emphasizing the careful, deliberate process of creating his work. He notes that his initial drafts are often written in longhand on legal pads, a method that allows him to think deeply and organize his ideas before committing them to typed form. This highlights Caro’s dedication to methodical craftsmanship in writing.

Caro contrasts his traditional approach with modern technology, mentioning that after his handwritten drafts, he transitions to a typewriter. He acknowledges that others are increasingly using computers, and his adherence to older methods often invites humor or skepticism from colleagues. This illustrates both his commitment to a proven process and the tension between traditional and contemporary techniques in writing and research.

The origin of this perspective comes from Caro’s career as a biographer and historian, particularly known for his meticulous work on figures like Robert Moses and Lyndon B. Johnson. His process of detailed note-taking, drafting, and rewriting is integral to the depth and accuracy for which his biographies are celebrated, showing that patience and thoroughness remain critical in scholarly work.

Ultimately, the quote emphasizes the importance of discipline, dedication, and personal methodology in writing. Caro demonstrates that even in an era of digital convenience, careful handwriting, drafting, and revision remain central to producing work of lasting quality and scholarly significance.