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In the act of creation there is always, it seems, an awful…

“In the act of creation there is always, it seems, an awful selfishness. So Dickens's wife and mistress had to suffer so that dickens could make his novels and his fortune. At least a bank manager's money is not so tainted by egotism. Mine was not a destructive profession. A bank manager doesn't…” quote by Graham Greene
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““In the act of creation there is always, it seems, an awful selfishness. So Dickens's wife and mistress had to suffer so that dickens could make his novels and his fortune. At least a bank manager's money is not so tainted by egotism. Mine was not a destructive profession. A bank manager doesn't leave a trail of the martyred behind him.””

Graham Greene

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Creation often demands personal sacrifice, leaving others to bear the cost of the creator’s ambition.

In simple terms: Creating can hurt others.

Key Takeaway

Consider the impact of your work on others.

Themes

creativity selfishness burden artistic ambition

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • business decisions
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

ego sacrifice ethical cost

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance personal ambition with responsibility?
  • Can creation be altruistic?
A Different Perspective

The quote may overgeneralize artistic sacrifice; not all creators cause harm.

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