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Art Quote by Kurt Vonnegut

“Here is a lesson in creative writing. First rule: Do not use semicolons. They are transvestite hermaphrodites representing absolutely nothing. All they do is show you've been to college. And I realize some of you may be having trouble deciding whether I am kidding or not. So from now on I will…” quote by Kurt Vonnegut
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““Here is a lesson in creative writing. First rule: Do not use semicolons. They are transvestite hermaphrodites representing absolutely nothing. All they do is show you've been to college. And I realize some of you may be having trouble deciding whether I am kidding or not. So from now on I will tell you when I'm kidding. For instance, join the National Guard or the Marines and teach democracy. I'm kidding. We are about to be attacked by Al Qaeda. Wave flags if you have them. That always seems to scare them away. I'm kidding. If you want to really hurt your parents, and you don't have the nerve to be gay, the least you can do is go into the arts. I'm not kidding. The arts are not a way to make a living. They are a very human way of making life more bearable. Practicing an art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow, for heaven's sake. Sing in the shower. Dance to the radio. Tell stories. Write a poem to a friend, even a lousy poem. Do it as well as you possibly can. You will get an enormous reward. You will have created something.””

Kurt Vonnegut

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The Art of Writing,” 1974

Critiques pretentious writing rules, celebrates artistic expression, and urges sincere, heartfelt creation despite societal expectations.

In simple terms: Write sincerely, ignore needless rules.

Key Takeaway

Create art for personal growth, not profit.

Themes

creativity authenticity rebellion

Mood

playful provocative

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • writing workshops
  • personal journals
  • public performances
  • creative projects

Key Concepts

literature artistic expression

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “making your soul grow” mean to you?
  • How can you balance art and livelihood?
A Different Perspective

Artistic pursuits may not guarantee financial stability.

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