Canada Quote by Emma Donoghue
![“I say "on principle" [regarding 'lesbian writer'] because whenever you get one of your minority labels applied, like "Irish Writer," "Canadian Writer," "Woman Writer," "Lesbian Writer" - any of those categories - you always slightly wince because you're afraid that people will think that means…” quote by Emma Donoghue](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a69/emma-donoghue-1499_canada_i-say-on-principle-regarding-lesbian-wri_3102220.jpg)
“I say "on principle" [regarding 'lesbian writer'] because whenever you get one of your minority labels applied, like "Irish Writer," "Canadian Writer," "Woman Writer," "Lesbian Writer" - any of those categories - you always slightly wince because you're afraid that people will think that means you're only going to write about Canada or Ireland, you know.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Literary discussion, 2022
Labeling writers by identity can limit perceived scope and reinforce stereotypes.
In simple terms: Identity tags may narrow expectations.
Key Takeaway
Resist pigeonholing authors.
Themes
identity
stereotypes
creative freedom
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
reflective
social
When to use this quote
- publishing
- marketing
- author branding
Key Concepts
intersectionality
authorial agency
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance identity visibility with artistic breadth?
- What impact do labels have on readership?
A Different Perspective
Labels can empower but also constrain.
