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Practice your writing by typing out classic literature. This method not only enhances your understanding of rhythm, structure, and nuances but also connects you deeply with the timeless flow of literary history.This is a BETA version.

Type the words from the book. We gave you 4 words to start with.

Mrs. Dalloway

by Virginia Woolf

Mrs. Dalloway is a novel by Virginia Woolf, first published in 1925. It is a modernist novel that follows a day in the life of Clarissa Dalloway, a society hostess in post-World War I England. The novel explores themes of time, memory, and the human psyche.

Read more about Virginia Woolf
Mrs. Dalloway
letter which Lady Bruton felt certain was a masterpiece. Could her own
meaning sound like that?

Hugh could not guarantee that the editor would put it in; but he would
be meeting somebody at luncheon.

Whereupon Lady Bruton, who seldom did a graceful thing, stuffed all
Hughs carnations into the front of her dress, and flinging her hands
out called himMy Prime Minister!” What she would have done without
them both she did not know. They rose. And Richard Dalloway strolled
off as usual to have a look at the Generals portrait, because he
meant, whenever he had a moment of leisure, to write a history of Lady
Brutons family.

And Millicent Bruton was very proud of her family. But they could
wait, they could wait, she said, looking at the picture; meaning that
her family, of military men, administrators, admirals, had been men
of action, who had done their duty; and Richards first duty was to
his country, but it was a fine face, she said; and all the papers were
ready for Richard down at Aldmixton whenever the time came; the Labour
Government she meant. “Ah, the news from India!” she cried.

And then, as they stood in the hall taking yellow gloves from the bowl
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Why Type a Masterpiece?

Typing out classical literature is not just an exercise in patience; it's a deeply immersive way to understand the rhythm, structure, and nuances of great writing. By manually reproducing the works of renowned authors, you engage with the text on a level that reading alone cannot offer. This method allows you to feel the flow of sentences, the choice of words, and the intricate construction of paragraphs that make these works timeless.

Style is a very simple matter; it is all rhythm. Once you get that, you can't use the wrong words.

– Virginia Woolf

literati is a unique platform where writers can select from a vast collection of public domain classics to type out. This practice is akin to a musician playing pieces by the masters to internalize the elements of composition and performance. Just as the musician learns the subtleties of each note and chord, the writer learns the power of each word and sentence.

Prose is like hair; it shines with combing.

– Gustave Flaubert

Engaging directly with masterpieces allows writers to absorb the rhythm of the text, the ebb and flow of its pacing, and the beauty of its imagery. It cultivates an appreciation for the craft of writing and provides invaluable lessons in how to construct compelling narratives, develop characters, and evoke emotions in readers. Happy typing!

The only truth is music.

– Jack Kerouac

More on this topic:

"Imitate then innovate", an article by David Perell