In his reflections, Raymond Carver expresses a strong aversion to tricks and gimmicks in writing. He finds such devices, whether simple or complex, tedious and unengaging. This disdain for artificiality stems from his belief that he has a limited attention span; thus, clever or overly intricate writing often fails to captivate him. Instead of resorts to tricks, Carver emphasizes the value of genuine observation and experience in writing.

He advocates for the importance of simplicity and authenticity in literature. A writer's ability to appreciate the world around them, whether it’s a sunset or an ordinary object, can lead to a profound expression of wonder. Carver suggests that instead of relying on clever plots or sophisticated devices, writers should embrace the beauty of the ordinary to create meaningful connections with their audience.