In the end nothing matters but the work. You can’t control…
““In the end nothing matters but the work. You can’t control how it’s taken, and the act of telling a story always involves a gap. Sometimes confusion is the risk of ambiguity–I say that to students all the time. It’s true at the fireside and it’s true in the parlor, and it’s true in made-up towns and New York. Two humans face one another, words come out of one, words go into the other mind through the ears and eyes of the listener. It’s a story. It’s simple. The gap is the thing. Make sure you build the bridge.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The essence of work lies in its creation, not its reception; storytelling always contains a gap between teller and listener that must be bridged.
In simple terms: Work matters more than how it's received; storytelling has a gap to bridge.
Key Takeaway
Focus on creating, then bridge the communication gap.
Themes
storytelling
communication
creation
interpretation
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
educational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- teaching
- writing workshops
- public speaking
- media production
Key Concepts
narrative theory
gap theory
bridge metaphor
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you ensure your intended message reaches the listener?
- What methods help close the gap in storytelling?
A Different Perspective
The audience's perception can still distort intent despite bridging efforts.