Skip to content

There's an old hymn called 'How Can I Keep from Singing?'…

“There's an old hymn called 'How Can I Keep from Singing?' That's what writing feels like to me. I have to write. It's intrinsic to who I am. So it was a natural choice for me to try to pursue writing as a career. Truthfully, though, I still daydream about how fun it would be to ride on the back of…” quote by Sarah Addison Allen
Download Open image
“There's an old hymn called 'How Can I Keep from Singing?' That's what writing feels like to me. I have to write. It's intrinsic to who I am. So it was a natural choice for me to try to pursue writing as a career. Truthfully, though, I still daydream about how fun it would be to ride on the back of a garbage truck.”

Sarah Addison Allen

About This Quote

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

Writing feels as essential as a hymn, an innate drive that compels the author to pursue it professionally.

In simple terms: Writing is a natural, essential part of identity.

Key Takeaway

Embrace your inner drive to write.

Themes

creativity identity career passion

Mood

reflective determined hopeful

Type

personal motivational

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • creative block
  • daily writing practice
  • publishing goals

Key Concepts

intrinsic motivation self‑expression vocational calling

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance creative passion with practical responsibilities?
  • What rituals keep your writing habit alive?
A Different Perspective

Even with strong drive, practical constraints like income and time can hinder progress.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Sarah Addison Allen

Explore all 362 Sarah Addison Allen quotes

More About quotes

Browse all 26,122 About quotes