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Life Quote by Marquis de Sade

“...and above all, you should not think of writing as a way of earning your living. If you do, your work will smell of your poverty. It will be colored by your weakness and be as thin as your hunger. There are other trades which you can take up: make boots, not books.” quote by Marquis de Sade
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““...and above all, you should not think of writing as a way of earning your living. If you do, your work will smell of your poverty. It will be colored by your weakness and be as thin as your hunger. There are other trades which you can take up: make boots, not books.””

Marquis de Sade

About This Quote

Source Book: The 120 Days of Sade, 1785

Writing should not be pursued solely for money, or it will degrade its quality and authenticity.

In simple terms: Writing for profit harms its integrity.

Key Takeaway

Write for passion, not paycheck.

Themes

art integrity creativity livelihood values

Mood

reflective serious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career choice
  • freelance writing
  • artistic pursuits
  • financial planning

Key Concepts

authenticity motivation economic pressure

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you separate creative work from income?
  • What alternatives support artistic integrity?
A Different Perspective

If financial survival depends on writing, quality may suffer.

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