Skip to content

But my way of writing is rather to think aloud, and follow…

“But my way of writing is rather to think aloud, and follow my own humours, than much to consider who is listening to me; and, if I stop to consider what is proper to be said to this or that person, I shall soon come to doubt whether any part at all is proper.” quote by Thomas de Quincey
Download Open image
“But my way of writing is rather to think aloud, and follow my own humours, than much to consider who is listening to me; and, if I stop to consider what is proper to be said to this or that person, I shall soon come to doubt whether any part at all is proper.”

Thomas de Quincey

About This Quote

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

Writing should follow authentic voice, not audience expectations

In simple terms: Write authentically, ignore audience

Key Takeaway

Trust your inner voice

Themes

authenticity creativity self‑expression

Mood

introspective defiant

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • journaling
  • creative writing
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

Spontaneity personal voice

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you edit for audience or self?
  • How does spontaneity affect clarity?
A Different Perspective

Risk of alienating listeners

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Thomas de Quincey

Explore all 86 Thomas de Quincey quotes

More Doubt quotes

Browse all 9,582 Doubt quotes