Skip to content

Awake Quote by Barbara Kingsolver

“I'm widest awake as a writer doing something new, engaged in a process I'm not sure I can finish, generating at the edge of my powers. Some people bungee jump; I write.” quote by Barbara Kingsolver
Download Open image
“I'm widest awake as a writer doing something new, engaged in a process I'm not sure I can finish, generating at the edge of my powers. Some people bungee jump; I write.”

Barbara Kingsolver

About This Quote

Source Interview: "The Unbearable Weight of Being a Writer", 2015

The quote captures the exhilaration and uncertainty of creative work, likening it to a daring act that pushes personal limits.

In simple terms: Creating feels thrilling and risky, like a daring jump.

Key Takeaway

Embrace the unknown in your creative process.

Themes

creativity risk self‑discovery

Mood

excited anxious

Type

inspirational reflective

When to use this quote

  • starting a novel
  • public speaking
  • learning a new skill
  • entrepreneurial launch

Key Concepts

flow edge of competence artist’s drive

Questions to Reflect On

  • What new project scares you most?
  • How can you sustain energy through uncertainty?
A Different Perspective

The excitement can mask fear of failure and burnout.

4.6 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Barbara Kingsolver

Explore all 939 Barbara Kingsolver quotes

More Awake quotes

Browse all 1,317 Awake quotes