“Kill your darlings.” It’s advice most writers know well, urging us to cut those phrases, ideas, or characters that while brilliant—at least to us, don’t serve the work. But must they always die? Lately, I’ve been experimenting with another approach: Darlings’ Dungeon.
Instead of executing outright, I send them to a metaphorical dungeon—a space where they’re exiled but not erased. I’m playing the role of a ruler: decisive when necessary, but also capable of practicing mercy—or merely benign neglect. Perhaps it’s wishful thinking, trying to have it both ways, but I hope to find wisdom in this balance.
Here’s how it works (for/with me)
1. Build the Dungeon.
Create a space—a folder, a document, or even a notebook—dedicated to your darlings. This becomes their exile, where they’re out of the way but not entirely gone.
2. Practice Strategic Neglect.
Once a darling is in the dungeon, leave it alone. This separation creates detachment, the kind that Buddhist and other Eastern traditions teach: a way to loosen your grip on what you think you can’t let go.
3. Revisit with Purpose.
Every so often, descend into the dungeon. Some darlings might surprise you, fitting perfectly into a new project or sparking fresh ideas. Most no longer hold the brilliance you once saw in them—but they still can offer up actionable intelligence. Either way, this conversation leads to reflection.
4. Allow for Parole.
Occasionally, you’ll find a darling worth bringing back. Think of the Hollywood trope—the prisoner released for a dangerous mission. The condemned can sometimes save the day.
This process isn’t just about salvaging ideas; it’s about managing regret. Cutting a beloved idea can feel like losing something valuable forever. Moving it to the dungeon feels less final—a way to honor your creativity while staying focused on the work at hand.
Of course, this method doesn’t solve everything. Maybe I am trying to have it both ways: to be ruthless and merciful, detached and indulgent. Still, for now, Darlings’ Dungeon helps me navigate that tension.
How do you handle your darlings? Are you quick to cut them, or do you keep them around, waiting for the right moment?