I'm not doing anything, and yet I'm also doing the most important thing a man can do: I'm listening to what I needed to hear from myself.
Paulo CoelhoRead
I wanted to write when I was young, but people said it was impossible. Then my parents locked me in a mental institution - they said I was crazy and would never make a living from writing.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the struggle of pursuing one's passion against societal expectations and personal challenges.
In this quote, Paulo Coelho shares his experience of facing disbelief and opposition from others regarding his desire to write. Despite being deemed crazy and confined due to his ambition, he emphasizes the importance of following one's dreams and the perseverance needed to overcome obstacles for personal fulfillment.
Themes
WritingDreamsPerseveranceOppositionPersonal Fulfillment
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech for aspiring writers, this quote can inspire them to pursue their dreams despite difficulties.
More from Paulo Coelho
All quotes →Each stone, each bend cries welcome to him. He identifies with the mountains and the streams, he sees something of his own soul in the plants and the animals and the birds of the field.
Paulo CoelhoRead
We need to clear our minds of bad thoughts.
Paulo CoelhoRead
Having the courage to take the steps we always wanted to take is the only way of showing that we trust in God.
Paulo CoelhoRead
The fool who loves giving advice on our garden never tends his own plants
Paulo CoelhoRead
Sometimes the Warrior feels as if he were living two lives at once.
Paulo CoelhoRead
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