Skip to content

Dylan Quote by Jay McInerney

“Most all of the writers I admired when I was in my teens and twenties died young. Fitzgerald lived the longest. He was 44. Dylan Thomas was 39. And then once you're approaching 40, you suddenly think, "Well, maybe I would like to live longer than Fitzgerald or Thomas."” quote by Jay McInerney
Download Open image
“Most all of the writers I admired when I was in my teens and twenties died young. Fitzgerald lived the longest. He was 44. Dylan Thomas was 39. And then once you're approaching 40, you suddenly think, "Well, maybe I would like to live longer than Fitzgerald or Thomas."”

Jay McInerney

About This Quote

The speaker reflects on the early deaths of admired writers, realizing a desire to outlive them as they age.

In simple terms: Contemplating mortality and legacy

Key Takeaway

Age changes perspective on longevity

Themes

mortality age literary admiration legacy self-awareness

Mood

reflective melancholic thoughtful

Type

personal anecdote literary reflection

When to use this quote

  • young writer feeling insecure
  • midlife reassessment
  • career planning
  • personal health decisions
  • family expectations

Key Concepts

celebrity longevity creative pressure

Practical Applications

  • writing memoirs
  • teaching literature

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does age influence our aspirations?
  • What does living longer mean for creative output?
3.4 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Jay McInerney

Explore all 92 Jay McInerney quotes

More Dylan quotes

Browse all 668 Dylan quotes