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Apartment Quote by Anne Fadiman

“Something amazing happens when the rest of the world is sleeping. I am glued to my chair. I forget that I ever wanted to do anything but write. The crowded city, the crowded apartment, and the crowded calendar suddenly seem spacious. Three or four hours pass in a moment; I have no idea what time…” quote by Anne Fadiman
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“Something amazing happens when the rest of the world is sleeping. I am glued to my chair. I forget that I ever wanted to do anything but write. The crowded city, the crowded apartment, and the crowded calendar suddenly seem spacious. Three or four hours pass in a moment; I have no idea what time it is, because I never check the clock. If I chose to listen, I could hear the swish of taxis bound for downtown bars or the soft saxophone riffs that drift from a neighbor's window, but nothing gets through. I am suspended in a sensory deprivation tank, and the very lack of sensation is delicious.”

Anne Fadiman

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Art of Stillness, 2014

When external distractions fade, deep focus emerges, allowing creative flow and timeless immersion.

In simple terms: Quietness unlocks deep work.

Key Takeaway

Seek moments of silence for productivity.

Themes

focus creativity mindfulness

Mood

contemplative inspired

Type

reflective motivational

When to use this quote

  • writing sessions
  • late-night work
  • meditative practice

Key Concepts

Flow state sensory deprivation temporal distortion

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you cultivate this focus regularly?
  • What environments best support your creative flow?
A Different Perspective

Distractions can still intrude despite physical isolation.

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