Thought Quote by John Ashbery
““I thought that if I could put it all down, that would be one way. And next the thought came to me that to leave all out would be another, and truer, way.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror”, 1975
Writing can be an act of both inclusion and exclusion, each revealing truth.
In simple terms: Writing chooses what to include or omit.
Key Takeaway
Choose honesty in what you share.
Themes
creativity
truth
artistic process
Mood
introspective
analytical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- journaling
- editing drafts
- public speaking
Key Concepts
expression
selectivity
authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- What do you leave out when writing?
- How does omission shape meaning?
A Different Perspective
Exclusion may silence important voices.
