If there was no other motive in view [except] to have the…
“If there was no other motive in view [except] to have the privilege of reading over our journals and for our children to read, it would pay for the time spent in writing it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Writing for future generations justifies the effort, even without personal gain.
In simple terms: Writing for others makes the effort worthwhile.
Write for future readers.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- family letters
- historical archives
- personal diaries
- educational materials
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Who will benefit from your words?
- How does purpose affect your writing?
If readers never engage, the effort may feel wasted.