When it was time to write, and he took his pen in his…
““When it was time to write, and he took his pen in his hand, he never thought of consequences; he thought of style. I wonder why I ever bothered with sex, he thought; there's nothing in this breathing world so gratifying as an artfully placed semicolon.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Writing Process, Hilary Mantel, 2015
The author prioritizes artistic style over consequences, valuing the craft of writing above all else.
In simple terms: Style over consequences in writing.
Key Takeaway
Focus on craft, not outcomes.
Themes
creativity
style
artistry
Mood
introspective
analytical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- novel drafting
- editing
- creative workshops
Key Concepts
literature
writing discipline
Questions to Reflect On
- How does style influence reader experience?
- When is it okay to ignore consequences?
A Different Perspective
Neglecting impact can be selfish.