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Art Quote by John Irving

“I feel more a part of the wrestling community than I feel I belong to the community of arts and letters. Why? Because wrestling requires even more dedication than writing because wrestling represents the most difficult and rewarding objective that I have ever dedicated myself to; because wrestling…” quote by John Irving
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“I feel more a part of the wrestling community than I feel I belong to the community of arts and letters. Why? Because wrestling requires even more dedication than writing because wrestling represents the most difficult and rewarding objective that I have ever dedicated myself to; because wrestling and wrestling coaches are among the most disciplined and self-sacrificing people I have ever known.”

John Irving

About This Quote

Source Interview: The New Yorker, 1995

The speaker feels deeper belonging to wrestling because it demands intense dedication and discipline, surpassing even the literary world.

In simple terms: Wrestling feels more like home due to its demanding nature.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and respect the discipline in all pursuits.

Themes

dedication discipline identity community

Mood

reflective serious

Type

personal comparative

When to use this quote

  • sports teams
  • coaching
  • creative writing
  • academic circles

Key Concepts

self‑sacrifice athleticism artistic pursuit

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does discipline shape your sense of belonging?
  • What can arts learn from wrestling’s rigor?
A Different Perspective

Wrestling may not be universally accessible, limiting its relevance for some.

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