I learned not to care ... and to write for an imaginary reader whose tastes were similar to my own.
Terry SouthernRead
The important thing in writing is the capacity to astonish. Not shock - shock is a worn-out word - but astonish.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Writing should aim to amaze and inspire rather than just provoke.
Terry Southern emphasizes that true writing transcends mere shock value; it should instead evoke a sense of wonder and astonishment. This captures the essence of creativity, urging writers to strive for deeper emotional impacts that resonate with readers and elevate their experiences.
Themes
WritingAstonishCreativityArtExpression
In practice
Example use cases
A writer could use this quote to inspire students in a creative writing workshop.
More from Terry Southern
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Asymmetric balance creates greater reader interest. Pleasure derived from observing asymmetrical arrangements lies partly in overcoming resistances, which, consciously or not, the spectator adjusts in his own mind.
Paul RandRead
The word 'art' interests me very much. If it comes from Sanskrit, as I've heard, it signifies 'making.' Now everyone makes something, and those who make things on a canvas with a frame, they're called artists. Formerly, they were called craftsmen, a term I prefer. We're all craftsmen, in civilian or military or artistic life.
Marcel DuchampRead
Designers take care of everything around us. Everything that is around us, this table, this chair, this lamp, this pen has been designed. All of these things, everything has been designed by somebody.
Massimo VignelliRead
Here the frailest leaves of me and yet my strongest lasting, Here I shade and hide my thoughts, I myself do not expose them, And yet they expose me more than all my other poems
Walt WhitmanRead
My position is that serious and good art has always existed to help, to serve, humanity. Not to indict. I don't see how art can be called art if its purpose is to frustrate humanity.
Chinua AchebeRead
It's delightful, it's delicious, it's de-lovely.
Cole PorterRead