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Courses Quote by George Saunders

“Every writer has to find the thing to keep her eye on about which she has strong opinions. That's of course deeply personal, but the nice thing is that it has to do with joy rather than fear. It has to do with you. If you're funny, your method will be to try to be funnier. Which again is…” quote by George Saunders
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“Every writer has to find the thing to keep her eye on about which she has strong opinions. That's of course deeply personal, but the nice thing is that it has to do with joy rather than fear. It has to do with you. If you're funny, your method will be to try to be funnier. Which again is empowering I think.”

George Saunders

About This Quote

Source Interview: The New Yorker, 2015

Writers should focus on topics they care deeply about, driven by joy not fear, which fuels authentic humor and empowerment.

In simple terms: Write about what you love, not what scares you.

Key Takeaway

Follow your joy, let humor empower you.

Themes

creativity authenticity joy

Mood

inspirational reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • writing workshops
  • personal essays
  • stand‑up comedy
  • creative projects

Key Concepts

personal voice humor empowerment

Questions to Reflect On

  • What personal passion could you write about today?
  • How does joy change your creative process?
A Different Perspective

Joy may not always translate to market success.

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