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I wanted to live in Paris and write nothing but fiction…

“I wanted to live in Paris and write nothing but fiction and be perfectly free. I had decided all this had to be settled by the time I was thirty, and so I gave up my job and moved to Paris at twenty-eight. I just held my breath and jumped. I didn’t even look to see if there was water in the pool.” quote by Mavis Gallant
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“I wanted to live in Paris and write nothing but fiction and be perfectly free. I had decided all this had to be settled by the time I was thirty, and so I gave up my job and moved to Paris at twenty-eight. I just held my breath and jumped. I didn’t even look to see if there was water in the pool.”

Mavis Gallant

About This Quote

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

The narrator abandons security to pursue artistic freedom in Paris, embracing risk without over‑analysis.

In simple terms: She quits her job, moves to Paris, and jumps into a new life.

Key Takeaway

Take bold steps toward your dreams, trusting intuition over fear.

Themes

risk taking freedom creativity life transitions

Mood

determined adventurous

Type

inspirational reflective

When to use this quote

  • career change
  • relocation
  • creative projects
  • travel planning

Key Concepts

existentialism personal growth cultural immersion

Questions to Reflect On

  • What practical steps could balance risk with preparation?
  • How does fear of failure shape your decisions?
A Different Perspective

Such impulsivity can lead to unforeseen hardships.

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