Certain Quote by Donald Hall
“To desire to write poems that endure-we undertake such a goal certain of two things: that in all likelihood we will fail, and if we succeed we will never know it”
About This Quote
Source Poetry Collection: The Best of Donald Hall, 1998
Writing lasting poetry is a gamble: failure is likely, and success may go unnoticed, yet the act itself is valuable.
In simple terms: Poetry may fail or be unrecognized, but writing is worthwhile.
Write poems regardless of outcome.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal journaling
- literary workshops
- self‑publication
- academic courses
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What motivates you to write if recognition is uncertain?
- How do you measure personal fulfillment in art?
Success may be invisible, leading to self‑doubt.