Chores Quote by Harlan Ellison
“There is no nobler chore in the craft of writing than holding up the mirror of reality and turning it slightly, so we have a new and different perception of the commonplace, the everyday, the 'normal,' the obvious. People are reflected in the glass. The fantasy situation into which you thrust them is the mirror itself. And what we are shown should illuminate and alter our perception of the world around us. Failing that, you have failed totally.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Art of Writing, 1990
Writing must reflect reality, then subtly reshape perception, prompting readers to see the ordinary anew.
In simple terms: Writing mirrors life and changes how we view it.
Key Takeaway
Use writing to reveal hidden truths.
Themes
creativity
perception
truth
reflection
Mood
thoughtful
inspired
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- journalism
- fiction
- teaching
- public speaking
Key Concepts
literary criticism
psychology
social commentary
Questions to Reflect On
- How does altering reality in writing affect readers?
- What ordinary details can become profound?
A Different Perspective
May overemphasize authorial intent, limiting reader interpretation.
![“The only thing worth writing about is people. People. Human beings. Men and women whose individuality must be created, line by line, insight by insight. If you do not do it, the story is a failure. [...] There is no nobler chore in the universe than holding up the mirror of reality and turning it…” quote by Harlan Ellison](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d91/harlan-ellison-2133_men-and-women_the-only-thing-worth-writing-about-is-pe_572278.jpg)
