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The most original thing a writer can do is write like himself. It is also his most difficult task.
Robertson Davies
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Interpretation

What this quote means

A writer's authenticity is their greatest strength, yet achieving it can be quite challenging.

This quote emphasizes that true originality in writing comes from expressing one's own unique voice and perspective. While this authenticity is what sets a writer apart, it is also a difficult endeavor, as writers often grapple with external influences and self-doubt that may distort their genuine style.

Themes

OriginalityWritingAuthenticityCreativitySelf-Expression

In practice

Example use cases

In a writing workshop, you might use this quote to encourage participants to find their unique voice.

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Authors like cats because they are such quiet, lovable, wise creatures, and cats like authors for the same reasons.
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The egotist is all surface; underneath is a pulpy mess and a lot of self-doubt. But the egoist may be yielding and even deferential in things he doesn't consider important; in anything that touches his core he is remorseless.
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The world is full of people whose notion of a satisfactory future is, in fact, a return to the idealized past.
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