It is indeed certain, that whoever attempts any common topick, will find unexpected coincidences of his thoughts with those of other writers; nor can the nicest judgment always distinguish accidental similitude from artful imitation. – Samuel Johnson, 1751

Every author in some way portrays himself in his works, even if it be against his will. – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Read over your compositions, and when you meet a passage which you think is particularly fine, strike it out. – Samuel Johnson, “Recalling the Advice of a College Tutor,” Boswell, Life of John

A story should have a beginning, a middle, and an end… but not necessarily in that order. – Jean Luc Godard