Jean Hanff Korelitz: Why Most People Don’t Actually Have a Book Idea

Do you need to know everything about your book before you start writing? Jean Hanff Korelitz says no, and in fact, knowing too much might be the problem. In this live, in-class conversation, bestselling novelist Jean Hanff Korelitz shares a clear and often contrarian perspective on writing, creativity, and the reality behind finishing a book. Jean explains why over-planning kills surprise, why most people only have a “four sentence idea” rather than a real book, and how writers must learn to tolerate constant doubt and self-criticism. We also talk about where ideas come from, how long they can take to develop, and why writing is less about control and more about discovery. This episode is especially valuable for writers who feel stuck waiting for clarity, or trying to “figure everything out” before they begin.