Skip to content

Books Quote by Lev Grossman

“I read obsessively when I'm writing. I think there are two kinds of fiction writers, those who read incessantly while they write and those who can't read at all, lest their individual voices get overwhelmed, or tainted somehow. I'm the first kind. To use a painfully precious metaphor, I need fixed…” quote by Lev Grossman
Download Open image
““I read obsessively when I'm writing. I think there are two kinds of fiction writers, those who read incessantly while they write and those who can't read at all, lest their individual voices get overwhelmed, or tainted somehow. I'm the first kind. To use a painfully precious metaphor, I need fixed stars to navigate by, otherwise I get lost in the blankness of the page.””

Lev Grossman

About This Quote

Source Interview: “The Art of Writing”, 2015, The New Yorker

Fiction writers need to read constantly to guide their craft; without reference points they risk losing direction.

In simple terms: Writers must read a lot to stay on course.

Key Takeaway

Read widely to sharpen your voice.

Themes

creativity writing process literary influences

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

literary motivational

When to use this quote

  • writing workshops
  • personal writing practice
  • literary criticism

Key Concepts

reading habits creative inspiration authorial development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance reading and writing?
  • What sources inspire your unique style?
A Different Perspective

Reading too much can stifle originality; balance is key.

2.0 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Lev Grossman

Explore all 379 Lev Grossman quotes

More Books quotes

Browse all 59,485 Books quotes