Book Quote by Lawrence Clark Powell
![“[A writer] must try to think clearly, to feel deeply, to write honestly. If he is fortunate he will make a living, but his work will never be anymore essentially clear and deep and honest than he himself is, and he will be judged finally not for how many copies his books have sold, but for what…” quote by Lawrence Clark Powell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c72/lawrence-clark-powell-27650_book_a-writer-must-try-to-think-clearly-to-fe_1486016.jpg)
“[A writer] must try to think clearly, to feel deeply, to write honestly. If he is fortunate he will make a living, but his work will never be anymore essentially clear and deep and honest than he himself is, and he will be judged finally not for how many copies his books have sold, but for what they have done to enrich the lives of their readers, now and in time to come.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Writer's Life, 1975
A writer must think clearly, feel deeply, and write honestly; true value lies in enriching readers, not sales.
In simple terms: Writers need clarity, feeling, honesty; impact matters more than profit.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize authenticity and reader enrichment.
Themes
writing
integrity
creativity
literature
legacy
Mood
reflective
inspirational
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- Workshops
- author interviews
- literary criticism
Key Concepts
Self‑reflection
ethical writing
reader impact
Questions to Reflect On
- Can a writer stay honest while making a living?
- How does depth affect reader enrichment?
A Different Perspective
Idealism may clash with market pressures.
![“[A writer] should try not to be too far, personally, below the level of his work.” quote by Elizabeth Bowen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/21f/elizabeth-bowen-1197_levels_a-writer-should-try-not-to-be-too-far-pe_2064115.jpg)
