Asking a working writer what he thinks about critics is…
“Asking a working writer what he thinks about critics is like asking a lamp-post what it feels about dogs.”
This quote is also attributed to John Osborne in other sources. Attributions for famous quotes are often disputed.
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Critics are irrelevant to writers, like a lamp‑post to dogs.
In simple terms: Critics don’t affect writers as dogs don’t affect lamp‑posts.
Key Takeaway
Ignore critics; focus on your craft.
Themes
criticism
art
creativity
Mood
cynical
humorous
Type
satirical
advice
When to use this quote
- publishing a novel
- film scriptwriting
- art exhibitions
- public readings
Key Concepts
creative process
public reception
artist confidence
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you ever consider critics’ opinions?
- How do you separate useful feedback from noise?
A Different Perspective
Some feedback can improve work if taken constructively.