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I wrote the Dickens book because I loved Dickens, not…

“I wrote the Dickens book because I loved Dickens, not because I felt a kinship with him, but after writing the book it seemed to me that there was at least one similarity between us and that was that Dickens loved to write and wrote with the ease and conviction of breathing. Me, too.” quote by Jane Smiley
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“I wrote the Dickens book because I loved Dickens, not because I felt a kinship with him, but after writing the book it seemed to me that there was at least one similarity between us and that was that Dickens loved to write and wrote with the ease and conviction of breathing. Me, too.”

Jane Smiley

About This Quote

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

She wrote a Dickens-inspired book out of admiration, discovering a shared love for effortless, sincere writing

In simple terms: Writing out of admiration reveals shared creative instincts

Key Takeaway

Embrace genuine inspiration in your work

Themes

literature inspiration authenticity

Mood

reflective enthusiastic

Type

analytical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • writing a novel
  • literary criticism
  • teaching writing

Key Concepts

creative process literary influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does admiration shape your creative voice?
  • Can you identify other writers you share a natural rhythm with?
A Different Perspective

Personal admiration may not translate to identical style

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