[A writer] must teach himself that the basest of all…
![“[A writer] must teach himself that the basest of all things is to be afraid; and, teaching himself that, forget it forever, leaving no room in his workshop for anything but the old verities and truths of the heart, the old universal truths lacking which any story is ephemeral and doomed - love and…” quote by William Faulkner](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/806/william-faulkner-306_compassion_a-writer-must-teach-himself-that-the-bas_1958386.jpg)
““[A writer] must teach himself that the basest of all things is to be afraid; and, teaching himself that, forget it forever, leaving no room in his workshop for anything but the old verities and truths of the heart, the old universal truths lacking which any story is ephemeral and doomed - love and honor and pity and pride and compassion and sacrifice.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A writer must confront fear and avoid clinging to stale clichés, instead grounding stories in timeless human virtues.
In simple terms: Writers should face fear and focus on deep human values.
Key Takeaway
Embrace courage, write from the heart.
Themes
courage
authenticity
humanity
writing
Mood
reflective
determined
inspirational
Type
advice
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- creative workshops
- teaching writing
- personal development
Key Concepts
existentialism
literary craft
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance universal truths with fresh storytelling?
- What fears limit your creative voice?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on moral themes can stifle narrative originality.