Lies Quote by James A. Michener
““a word once written will often accidentally find a life that no one anticipates; it lies””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Source, James A. Michener, 1965
Writing can unintentionally create powerful ideas that outlive the author’s expectations.
In simple terms: Words can take on unexpected life.
Key Takeaway
Respect the impact of your words.
Themes
creativity
unintended consequences
legacy
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
reflective
cautionary
When to use this quote
- publishing
- activism
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
author
intent
interpretation
Questions to Reflect On
- How might your writing influence others unexpectedly?
- Can you anticipate unintended outcomes?
A Different Perspective
Ideas may be misinterpreted or co-opted.
![“[Very rich people] with brains make a great effort to hold on to every penny they have while preaching to the general population that freedom and dignity and patriotism are possible only under their protection; in this way they elicit the support of the very people they hold in subjection.” quote by James A. Michener](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/60b/james-a-michener-1627_freedom_very-rich-people-with-brains-make-a-grea_8715.jpg)
![“. . . Luddites were those frenzied traditionalists of the early 19th century who toured [England] wrecking new weaving machines on the theory that if they were destroyed . . . old jobs and old ways of life could be preserved . . . At certain times in his life each man is tempted to become a…” quote by James A. Michener](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/182/james-a-michener-1627_19th-century_luddites-were-those-frenzied-traditional_76909.jpg)
