To shift the structure of a sentence alters the meaning of that sentence, as definitely and inflexibly as the position of a camera alters the meaning of the object photographed.
Joan DidionRead
Writers are only rarely likable.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Writers often have complex personalities that may not be universally appealing.
Joan Didion suggests that the nature of being a writer is often intertwined with a certain complexity, making it difficult for writers to be easily likable. The creative process can lead to a deep introspection and often a disconnect from conventional social norms, which may result in a perception of unlikability among others.
Themes
WritersLikabilityComplexityArtPersonality
In practice
Example use cases
In a literary discussion, one might say, 'As Joan Didion said, writers are only rarely likable, which often adds depth to their work.'
More from Joan Didion
All quotes →The truth is, it's easier for me to write than talk... to express the state I'm in at any time.
Joan DidionRead
Memories are what you no longer want to remember.
Joan DidionRead
It was clear, for example, in 1988 that the political process had already become perilously remote from the electorate it was meant to represent.
Joan DidionRead
I mean maybe I was holding all the aces, but what was the game?
Joan DidionRead
Do not whine... Do not complain. Work harder. Spend more time alone.
Joan DidionRead
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