" I always say when you write a book, you’re a ‘one-man band.’ Whereas, when you finish a screenplay, it’s just a sketch. "
- Diablo Cody

When a writer creates a book, they often refer to themselves as a 'one-man band,' meaning that the process involves a significant amount of solitary work with little external input during early stages. The writer takes on multiple roles: creator, editor, and sometimes even publisher. Conversely, when completing a screenplay, the author views it more as an outline or sketch, implying that much more collaborative effort goes into bringing it to life.

The quote underscores the distinction between the creative processes of writing books and screenplays. While crafting a book can feel like a solitary journey where the writer’s voice is paramount from start to finish, screenwriting is inherently collaborative. Screenplay writers often work within a larger production team that includes directors, producers, actors, and editors who contribute significantly to shaping the final product. The initial screenplay serves as a blueprint, with various stakeholders adding their expertise and vision throughout development.

Diablo Cody is an American writer known for her distinctive voice in both literature and screenwriting. She rose to prominence with her debut script "Juno," which won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay in 2007. Since then, she has continued to make significant contributions to film and television through both writing and acting.