too many notes

I've always loved the line in Amadeus when Emperor Joseph II of Austria says to Mozart that his opera has "too many notes."

"Too many notes?"

"Your work is ingenious. It's quality work. And there are simply
too many notes, that's all. Just cut a few and it will be perfect."

"Which few did you have in mind, Majesty?"

I am like that with words. Often. But having put them on paper, I can't bear to part with them. In one way, I guess that's better than not having put anything on paper to begin with!

On the other hand, a rambling mess of random words strung together is as sure a defense against readers as a castle moat is to intruders.

Chapter one cut yesterday - down to 16,500 words. Not 'perfect', perhaps, but not bad. Chapter two is on the block today. I am guarding against discouragement and what's-the-use mantras. I felt SO good yesterday, having finally completed chapter 1! And it's so easy to slip from elation to despair. Why is that, do you suppose?

PS - if you click on the 'question mark' link above - currently messing up the layout - you'll hear the line! I have NO idea how to make that come up as link on the words themselves - as so many others manage. . . . a little help here? [never mind - figured it out! yay!!!]