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I don't keep any copy of my books around... they would…

“I don't keep any copy of my books around... they would embarass me. When I finish writing my books, I kick them in the belly, and have done with them.” quote by Ludwig Bemelmans
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“I don't keep any copy of my books around... they would embarass me. When I finish writing my books, I kick them in the belly, and have done with them.”

Ludwig Bemelmans

About This Quote

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

The author destroys his own books after completion, viewing them as personal artifacts that could embarrass him, emphasizing a desire to move beyond past work.

In simple terms: He discards his books to avoid embarrassment.

Key Takeaway

Let go of past creations to grow.

Themes

self‑criticism creative process letting go privacy

Mood

reflective defiant

Type

personal philosophical

When to use this quote

  • finishing manuscripts
  • destroying drafts
  • reflecting on personal growth
  • maintaining privacy

Key Concepts

ego impermanence artistic integrity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why destroy your own work?
  • How does this affect future writing?
A Different Perspective

Destruction may waste valuable work; could be seen as extreme.

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