"I tend not to know what the plot is or the story is or even the theme. Those things come later, for me"

This quote by Michael Ondaatje speaks with the imaginative procedure of writing. He recommends that when he begins composing, he does not have a clear concept of the plot, story, or theme. Rather, he permits these elements to become he composes. This approach to writing is reflective of the imaginative procedure, which often includes expedition and discovery. Ondaatje's quote suggests that he enables his writing to take him on a journey, enabling the plot, story, and style to establish as he goes. This technique to writing permits a more natural and natural advancement of the story, as opposed to a more stiff and structured method. Ondaatje's quote speaks with the value of permitting the innovative procedure to unfold, and trusting that the story will come together in the end.