kill one’s darlings: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom *kill one's darlings* is a phrase widely used in the English language, particularly in the creative arts. It is primarily associated with writing, but it can also be applied to other forms of artistic expression such as painting or music. The origins of the phrase are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the late 19th or early 20th century.

One possible origin of the idiom can be traced back to the American writer and poet, Arthur Quiller-Couch, who famously advised aspiring writers to "murder your darlings." This advice, which emphasizes the need for writers to be ruthless in editing and cutting out unnecessary or indulgent parts of their work, is believed to have popularized the idiom. However, the phrase itself predates Quiller-Couch's usage.

The phrase *kill one's darlings* has a figurative meaning that goes beyond its literal interpretation. It refers to the act of letting go of something that one holds dear or has a strong emotional attachment to. In the context of writing, it often entails eliminating passages, characters, or ideas that may be personally significant or cherished by the author, but do not contribute positively to the overall quality or coherence of the work.

One could argue that the idiom reflects the constant struggle that artists, including writers, face in their creative endeavors. It is often necessary for them to make difficult decisions and sacrifices to enhance the impact and integrity of their work. By recognizing the need to "kill their darlings," artists demonstrate their commitment to the pursuit of excellence and their willingness to put artistic vision above personal attachments or sentiments.

Interestingly, the idiom has also gained traction outside of the artistic realm and has been embraced in other contexts where difficult decisions or sacrifices need to be made. This demonstrates the versatility and adaptability of idiomatic expressions in the English language, which often transcend their original domains of usage.

The idiom *kill one's darlings* serves as a poignant reminder that the creative process is not always easy or straightforward. It encourages artists and writers to critically evaluate their work and make the necessary cuts or revisions, even if it means parting with elements that they hold dear. By doing so, they are able to enhance the overall quality and impact of their creations, ultimately striving for artistic excellence.

The idiom *kill one's darlings* shares a similar sentiment with the phrase "kill the goose that lays the golden eggs." Both expressions convey the idea that sometimes it is necessary to sacrifice something valuable or cherished in order to achieve a greater goal or benefit. In the case of "kill one's darlings," writers and artists sacrifice personal attachments to improve their work, while "kill the goose that lays the golden eggs" suggests that one must forego short-term gains for long-term success.

Another related idiom is "eat one's young," which has a similarly metaphorical meaning. This phrase refers to the act of destroying or harming the very thing or person from which one could potentially benefit. It implies a destructive or self-sabotaging tendency that can hinder progress or success. When applied to the creative arts, "eat one's young" could represent a self-destructive impulse that leads artists to undermine their own work or potential by refusing to let go of cherished but ultimately detrimental elements.

These idioms are reminders that in order to achieve true excellence and growth, it is sometimes necessary to make difficult choices and sacrifices. They highlight the importance of being willing to let go of personal attachments, be it in the form of beloved characters or ideas in writing, or valuable opportunities in business or life. By killing one's darlings and avoiding the temptation to eat one's young or kill the goose that lays the golden eggs, individuals are able to focus on what truly matters and strive for greatness.