Cardiologist Quote by Anatole Broyard
“To choose a writer for a friend is like palling around with your cardiologist, who might be musing as you talk to him that you are a sinking man. A writer's love for another writer is never quite free of malice. He may enjoy discussing your failures even more than you do. He probably sees you as tragic, like his characters - or unworthy of tragedy, which is worse.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The New Yorker, 1995
Choosing a writer as a confidant mirrors selecting a doctor who may exploit your vulnerabilities, revealing that literary love often carries hidden malice and judgment.
In simple terms: Choosing a writer can be risky because they may judge you harshly.
Key Takeaway
Beware of hidden motives in close literary relationships.
Themes
trust
vulnerability
literary criticism
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
advice
critical
When to use this quote
- personal counseling
- writing workshops
- literary circles
- editorial feedback
Key Concepts
malice
projection
self‑reflection
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you truly trust the writer’s motives?
- How does literary criticism affect self‑esteem?
A Different Perspective
Even trusted writers may impose their own narratives onto you.
