The mere understanding, however useful and indispensable, is the meanest faculty in the human mind and the most to be distrusted.
Thomas De QuinceyRead
But my way of writing is rather to think aloud, and follow my own humours, than much to consider who is listening to me; and, if I stop to consider what is proper to be said to this or that person, I shall soon come to doubt whether any part at all is proper.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of authentic expression over the influence of an audience.
In this quote, Thomas De Quincey reflects on his approach to writing, highlighting the significance of sincerity and personal exploration in the creative process. He suggests that by prioritizing what he feels compelled to express over concerns about audience expectations, he maintains his authenticity. The fear of saying something inappropriate hinders genuine expression, and true creativity comes from open, unfiltered thoughts.
Themes
WritingAuthenticitySelf-ExpressionCreativityThoughts
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about creativity, one might say, 'Like Thomas De Quincey, we should embrace our individual thoughts when creating rather than worrying about others' perceptions.'
More from Thomas De Quincey
All quotes →Nobody will laugh long who deals much with opium: its pleasures even are of a grave and solemn complexion.
Thomas De QuinceyRead
Surely everyone is aware of the divine pleasures which attend a wintry fireside; candles at four o'clock, warm hearthrugs, tea, a fair tea-maker, shutters closed, curtains flowing in ample draperies to the floor, whilst the wind and rain are raging audibly without.
Thomas De QuinceyRead
I stood checked for a moment - awe, not fear, fell upon me - and whist I stood, a solemn wind began to blow, the most mournful that ever ear heard. Mournful! That is saying nothing. It was a wind that had swept the fields of mortality for a hundred centuries.
Thomas De QuinceyRead
Thou hast the keys of Paradise, oh, just, subtle, and mighty opium!
Thomas De QuinceyRead
Flowers that are so pathetic in their beauty, frail as the clouds, and in their coloring as gorgeous as the heavens, had through thousands of years been the heritage of children - honored as the jewelry of God.
Thomas De QuinceyRead
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