Activity Quote by Lorrie Moore
“Perhaps one would be wise when young even to avoid thinking of oneself as a writer - for there's something a little stopped and satisfied, too healthy, in that. Better to think of writing, of what one does as an activity, rather than an identity - to write, I write; we write; to keep the calling a verb rather than a noun; to keep working at the thing, at all hours, in all places, so that your life does not become a pose, a pornography of wishing.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Writer's Life", The New Yorker, 1998
Viewing writing as a practice avoids ego traps and keeps creativity alive.
In simple terms: Write, don’t label yourself writer.
Key Takeaway
Focus on the act, not identity.
Themes
creativity
identity
process
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- daily writing
- career development
- creative blocks
Key Concepts
self‑concept
artistic discipline
Questions to Reflect On
- How does labeling affect your work?
- What habits keep your writing fresh?
A Different Perspective
Identity can become limiting if over‑emphasized.
