Accidents Quote by John Updike
“The creative writer uses his life as well as being its victim; he can control, in his work, the self-presentation that in actuality is at the mercy of a thousand accidents.”
About This Quote
The writer shapes his life into narrative, controlling self‑image despite life's randomness.
In simple terms: Writers turn life into story, controlling image.
Narrative can tame chaos.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- writing process
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
Practical Applications
- use storytelling to assert agency
Questions to Reflect On
- In what ways does writing give you control?
- Can you separate self‑image from accidents?