Despair Quote by Joyce Carol Oates
“When writing goes painfully, when it’s hideously difficult, and one feels real despair (ah, the despair, silly as it is, is real!)–then naturally one ought to continue with the work; it would be cowardly to retreat. But when writing goes smoothly–why then one certainly should keep on working, since it would be stupid to stop. Consequently one is always writing or should be writing.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Writing Process, 1995
When writing feels painful, keep going; when it flows, don’t stop—otherwise you cease writing altogether.
In simple terms: Keep writing regardless of ease or difficulty.
Key Takeaway
Never stop writing.
Themes
perseverance
discipline
creativity
Mood
reflective
encouraging
Type
literary
motivational
When to use this quote
- novel drafting
- journal entries
- blogging
- academic papers
Key Concepts
writing
psychology
motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- What strategies help you push through writing pain?
- How do you recognize when to pause versus persist?
A Different Perspective
Sustaining motivation can be challenging during prolonged difficulty.
