Effort Quote by Anne Sexton
“Now that I have written many words, and let out so many loves, for so many, and been altogether what I always was a woman of excess, of zeal and greed, I find the effort useless.”
About This Quote
The poet reflects on a life of excess and creative output, concluding that despite prolific expression, the effort feels futile.
In simple terms: Creative excess can feel meaningless.
Key Takeaway
Productivity without purpose breeds emptiness.
Themes
existentialism
creativity
excess
meaninglessness
Mood
melancholic
contemplative
Type
poetic
existential
When to use this quote
- author feeling burnt out after many books
- artist questioning the value of a prolific career
- individual overwhelmed by social media posting
Key Concepts
nihilism
self‑critique
Practical Applications
- periodic creative sabbaticals
- focus on intentional projects
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines a meaningful creative act?
- Can excess ever be reconciled with purpose?
A Different Perspective
The sense of futility may stem from external expectations rather than intrinsic lack of meaning.
![“Bernie [Ecclestone] is the commercial rights holder so the more outgoing the champion is, the better. Of course. I also do think about our sport and want to make an effort - but in my own way. I am Nico [Rosberg] and not Lewis [Hamilton]!” quote by Bernie Ecclestone](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/15c/bernie-ecclestone-8452_champion_bernie-ecclestone-is-the-commercial-righ_2948.jpg)
