Skip to content

Book Quote by George Orwell

“Writing a book is a horrible, exhausting struggle, like a long bout with some painful illness. One would never undertake such a thing if one were not driven on by some demon whom one can neither resist nor understand.” quote by George Orwell
Download Open image
“Writing a book is a horrible, exhausting struggle, like a long bout with some painful illness. One would never undertake such a thing if one were not driven on by some demon whom one can neither resist nor understand.”

George Orwell

About This Quote

Source Essay: Shooting an Elephant, 1936

Writing a book feels like a painful, relentless battle that only a compelling inner drive can justify.

In simple terms: Writing is a painful struggle driven by an irresistible inner force.

Key Takeaway

Embrace the struggle, let the inner drive guide you.

Themes

creativity struggle motivation

Mood

determined intense

Type

literary motivational

When to use this quote

  • authoring a novel
  • overcoming writer's block
  • creative projects
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

psychology endurance artistic drive

Questions to Reflect On

  • What inner demon fuels your creative work?
  • How can you balance pain with joy in creation?
A Different Perspective

The intense pain can lead to burnout if not managed.

3.6 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by George Orwell

Explore all 1,657 George Orwell quotes

More Book quotes

Browse all 29,381 Book quotes