All writing is an antisocial act, since the writer is a man who can speak freely only when alone; to be himself he must lock himself up, to communicate he must cut himself off from all communication; and in this there is something always a little mad. (p. 97)
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Writing requires isolation because the writer can only express their true self when alone, which creates a paradox where communication demands cutting off communication.
- In plain terms
- Writers need to be alone to be honest, which makes writing seem a bit irrational.
- What can you take from it?
- True expression often requires solitude.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why does solitude feel necessary for honesty?
- Can art exist without isolation?
Another view
Some writers collaborate effectively without needing total isolation.
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