Deals Quote by Colm Toibin
“I write with a sort of grim determination to deal with things that are hidden and difficult, and this means, I think, that pleasure is out of the question. I would associate this with narcissism anyway, and I would disapprove of it.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Secret of the Sea by Colm Tóibín, 2008
The author writes with grim resolve, avoiding pleasure, linking it to narcissism and disapproval.
In simple terms: Grim focus excludes joy.
Key Takeaway
Balance effort with self‑care.
Themes
determination
grimness
pleasure
self‑critique
Mood
introspective
serious
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- writing projects
- research
- personal goals
Key Concepts
narcissism
creative struggle
self‑discipline
Questions to Reflect On
- Is pleasure a sign of weakness?
- How can you honor both duty and joy?
A Different Perspective
Obsessive focus can lead to burnout.
![“I'll smoke, I'll cough, I'll get the tumors, I'll die, deal? Thank you America. [salutes]” quote by Bill Hicks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3d2/bill-hicks-970_america_i-ll-smoke-i-ll-cough-i-ll-get-the-tumor_655.jpg)
