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I always wanted to be a scientist. I don't really have any…

“I always wanted to be a scientist. I don't really have any writer friends. The process of being a writer is much more interior than being a scientist, because science is so reactionary. I think that all research scientists think of themselves as belonging to a grand tradition, building on work…” quote by Hanya Yanagihara
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“I always wanted to be a scientist. I don't really have any writer friends. The process of being a writer is much more interior than being a scientist, because science is so reactionary. I think that all research scientists think of themselves as belonging to a grand tradition, building on work that has been worked on since the very beginning of science itself. Whereas I'm not sure writers think of themselves in the same way.”

Hanya Yanagihara

About This Quote

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

Writers view their craft as introspective, unlike scientists who build on a long, external tradition.

In simple terms: Writing is inward, science outward.

Key Takeaway

Value both internal reflection and external collaboration.

Themes

creativity science writing tradition identity

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • author workshops
  • science communication
  • cross‑disciplinary projects
  • career mentorship

Key Concepts

interdisciplinary perception self‑reflection historical continuity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does interior focus shape narrative voice?
  • Can scientists adopt more reflective practices?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on introspection may isolate creators.

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