Books Quote by Lawrence Clark Powell
“I can speak of my own criterion for judging whether or not a book is good or bad. I ask of it a single question, From how deep and true an impulse did it spring? Was it written merely to shock? Only to make money? Or was it written to create somethin.”
About This Quote
A good book should spring from a deep, authentic impulse, not merely to shock or profit.
In simple terms: Books should arise from genuine inspiration, not profit.
Key Takeaway
Seek authenticity in reading and writing.
Themes
literature
authenticity
purpose
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- book reviews
- literary criticism
- author interviews
Key Concepts
creative impulse
ethical creation
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your creative impulse?
- Do you prioritize depth over marketability?
A Different Perspective
Commercial pressures can push creators toward sensationalism.
![“[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)
