Try any goddam thing you like, no matter how boringly normal or outrageous. If it works, fine. If it doesn't, toss it. Toss it even if you love it.
Stephen KingRead
I have spent a good many years since―too many, I think―being ashamed about what I write. I think I was forty before I realized that almost every writer of fiction or poetry who has ever published a line has been accused by someone of wasting his or her God-given talent. If you write (or paint or dance or sculpt or sing, I suppose), someone will try to make you feel lousy about it, that's all.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the struggle and self-doubt that artists face regarding their creativity and the judgments they encounter.
In this quote, Stephen King shares his personal journey of grappling with shame and criticism as a writer. He acknowledges that almost all creators—whether writers, painters, dancers, or musicians—face disapproval from others, leading them to doubt their talents. King's reflection serves as a reminder that such negative perceptions are part of the creative process, and the key is to persist despite the discouragement.
Themes
CreativitySelf-DoubtArtWritingCriticism
In practice
Example use cases
Use this quote to inspire a writing group discussion about overcoming self-doubt.
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