For your information, a good novel can change the world. Keep that in mind before you attempt to sit down at a typewriter. Never waste time on something you don't believe in yourself.
John FanteRead
Listen closely. There’s a remote possibility that you might learn something: First, I don’t give a damn if my work is commercial or not…I’m the writer. If what I write is good, then people will read it. That’s why literature exists. An author puts his heart and guts on the page. For your information, a good novel can change the world. Keep that in mind before you attempt to sit down at a typewriter. Never waste time on something you don’t believe in yourself.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of genuine belief in one's work as a writer.
John Fante highlights the significance of a writer's passion and authenticity in creating meaningful literature. He posits that true literary value is derived not from commercial success, but from the heart and conviction behind the writing. Fante argues that literature has the potential to enact real change in the world, and thus, a writer must invest deeply in their work to create something impactful, rather than merely following trends or expectations.
Themes
WritingAuthenticityLiteraturePassionConviction
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is perfect for a speech at a writer's conference to inspire budding authors.
More from John Fante
All quotes →We talked, she and I. She asked about my work and it was a pretense, she was not interested in my work. And when I answered, it was a pretense. I was not interested in my work either. There was only one thing that interested us, and she knew it. She had made it plain by her coming.
John FanteRead
Arturo Bandini: -What does happiness mean to you Camilla? Camilla: -That you can fall in love with whoever you want to, and not feel ashamed of it.
John FanteRead
Ah, Evelyn and Vivian, I love you both, I love you for your sad lives, the empty misery of your coming home at dawn. You too are alone, but you are not like Arturo Bandini, who is neither fish, fowl nor good red herring. So have your champagne, because I love you both, and you too, Vivian, even if your mouth looks like it had been dug out with raw fingernails and your old child's eyes swim in blood written like mad sonnets.
John FanteRead
Ask the dust on the road! Ask the Joshua trees standing alone where the Mojave begins. Ask them about Camilla Lopez, and they will whisper her name.
John FanteRead
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