When I read back my older blog posts, I usually want to delete the first line, the last line, or both. It’d often round out the piece. Why? Because starting and finishing are the hardest parts. They’re where I write for myself, not the reader—because I need courage.
Nobody knows if they’re starting right. Nobody knows if their ending will leave a lasting impression. It’s normal to hesitate. To hedge. To start and end on notes that build your confidence. The beautiful thing about art, however, is that when you’re done, you can delete them.
Your presentation doesn’t need a “Thank you for your attention” slide. Delete it. Go out with a bold statement. Your song doesn’t need a slow, fading outro. It can end right after the last drop. And your blog post better end on a line I can remember than one that makes sure I’ve heard what you’ve just explained. In fact, if it leaves me hanging just a little, it may actually linger, and isn’t that what art is for?
Use all the pipes and ladders you need to do your work. Just don’t forget to remove the scaffolding after you’re done.
