So in the dark we hide the heart that bleeds, And wait, and tend our agonizing seeds.
Countee CullenRead
There is no secret to success except hard work and getting something indefinable which we call 'the breaks.' In order for a writer to succeed, I suggest three things - read and write - and wait.
Interpretation
Success comes from hard work and a bit of luck.
Countee Cullen emphasizes that achieving success is not based on hidden secrets, but rather on diligent effort and the unpredictable circumstances that can aid one's journey. For aspiring writers, he suggests a simple formula of reading, writing, and being patient, indicating that mastery and opportunity play crucial roles in finding success.
In practice
During a motivational speech to aspiring writers, one might say this quote to inspire them to keep working hard.
So in the dark we hide the heart that bleeds, And wait, and tend our agonizing seeds.
The truth is... everything counts. Everything. Everything we do and everything we say. Everything helps or hurts; everything adds to or takes away from someone else.
All day long and all night through, One thing only must I do: Quench my pride and cool my blood, Lest I perish in the flood.
Your love to me was like an unread book.
You're standing onstage in a sold-out arena with people singing your music, and you feel like the loneliest person in the world. Because here's a party that, essentially, it's for you. And you still somehow feel like you don't belong there. Those people all have their lives and go back home.
If I had been playing for money I would have complained a long time ago that I was underpaid.
I too shall lie in the dust when I am dead, but now let me win noble renown.
No one knows what to say in the loser's locker room.
As for accomplishments, I just did what I had to do as things came along.
One of my great breaks is I have only done work I wanted to do.
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