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Books Quote by Don DeLillo

“It was only after two years' work that it occurred to me that I was a writer. I had no particular expectation that the novel would ever be published, because it was sort of a mess. It was only when I found myself writing things I didn't realise I knew that I said, 'I'm a writer now.' The novel had…” quote by Don DeLillo
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“It was only after two years' work that it occurred to me that I was a writer. I had no particular expectation that the novel would ever be published, because it was sort of a mess. It was only when I found myself writing things I didn't realise I knew that I said, 'I'm a writer now.' The novel had become an incentive to deeper thinking. That's really what writing is—an intense form of thought.”

Don DeLillo

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Writer’s Journey, Don DeLillo, 2015

Realizing one’s identity as a writer emerges through practice, not expectation, turning the act of writing into deep thinking.

In simple terms: Writing reveals itself through doing.

Key Takeaway

Embrace writing to discover yourself.

Themes

identity creativity self‑discovery

Mood

introspective thoughtful

Type

reflective philosophical

When to use this quote

  • starting a novel
  • daily journaling
  • creative workshops
  • self‑reflection

Key Concepts

literary theory cognitive process self‑concept

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does writing teach you about yourself?
  • How does the process shape your thoughts?
A Different Perspective

The label “writer” may feel limiting if not paired with broader growth.

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