A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
Write about what really interests you, whether it is real things or imaginary things, and nothing else. (Notice this means that if you are interested only in writing you will never be a writer, because you will have nothing to write about...)
Interpretation
What this quote means
Focus on writing about topics that genuinely fascinate you, as authenticity is crucial for creative expression.
C. S. Lewis emphasizes the importance of writing about subjects that truly captivate our interest, whether they are based in reality or imagination. He warns that limiting oneself to writing alone can stifle creativity; a writer must draw inspiration from a broader range of experiences and passions to create meaningful work.
Themes
WritingCreativityAuthenticityInterestExpression
In practice
Example use cases
In a creative writing class, this quote may inspire students to explore their personal interests.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes βI enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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