"The story was such that I couldn't make a graceful ending and then make a graceful new beginning. I could have, but I didn't want to. So, it isn't the most graceful way of writing a story. This new story is, I think, is pretty good stuff. I'm pleased with it anyway"

This quote by Jack Vance talks to the trouble of composing a story with a graceful ending and starting. He acknowledges that he might have done it, however he selected not to. This suggests that he was more thinking about producing a story that was distinct and interesting, instead of one that followed a conventional structure. He is pleased with the new story he has created, suggesting that he is pleased with the imaginative choices he has actually made. This quote speaks to the importance of creativity and taking risks when composing stories. It likewise reveals that in some cases it is necessary to break away from standard structures in order to develop something genuinely unique and special.