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 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.””
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.
Create art for personal growth, not profit.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- personal journals
- public performances
- creative projects
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “making your soul grow” mean to you?
- How can you balance art and livelihood?
Artistic pursuits may not guarantee financial stability.