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
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.
In practice
A writer could use this quote to inspire students in a creative writing workshop.
I learned not to care ... and to write for an imaginary reader whose tastes were similar to my own.
I don't take drugs: I am drugs.
I'm a failed poet. Reading poetry helps me to see the world differently, and I try to infuse my prose with figurative language, which goes against the trend in fiction.
I think it is perfectly natural for any artist to admire intensely and love a young man. It is an incident in the life of almost every artist.
Everybody was wearing rhinestones, all those sparkly clothes, and cowboy boots. I decided to wear a black shirt and pants and see if I could get by with it. I did and I've worn black clothes ever since.
In the music business, we all do different things, but we sit there and admire other people who can write a song differently or sing differently. It's not so competitive.
I design for the woman who loves being a woman.
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