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My colleagues knew I was writing poems. I never hid it…

“My colleagues knew I was writing poems. I never hid it from them. I don't think they ever thought I was cheating on them. So, I think they probably saw it as being rather peculiar, that I was doing that sort of thing, but nobody ever suggested I shouldn't be doing it. I think that would be…” quote by Ted Kooser
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“My colleagues knew I was writing poems. I never hid it from them. I don't think they ever thought I was cheating on them. So, I think they probably saw it as being rather peculiar, that I was doing that sort of thing, but nobody ever suggested I shouldn't be doing it. I think that would be different on Madison Avenue or Wall Street, where you're really expected to be doing 110 percent for the company.”

Ted Kooser

About This Quote

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

The speaker notes that creative pursuits like poetry are often seen as odd in corporate settings, where performance is prized over personal expression.

In simple terms: Poetry is viewed as odd at work.

Key Takeaway

Balance personal expression with professional expectations.

Themes

creativity workplace culture authenticity

Mood

thoughtful conflicted

Type

personal philosophical

When to use this quote

  • office
  • creative writing
  • personal hobbies
  • career development

Key Concepts

self-expression corporate conformity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you integrate art into a demanding job?
  • Can authenticity improve work performance?
A Different Perspective

Some may still value creativity as a strength.

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