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Cities Quote by May Sarton

“This suspension of one's own reality, this being entirely alone in a strange city (at times I wondered if I had lost the power of speech) is an enriching state for a writer. Then the written word ... takes on an intensity of its own. Nothing gets exteriorized or dissipated; all is concentrated…” quote by May Sarton
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“This suspension of one's own reality, this being entirely alone in a strange city (at times I wondered if I had lost the power of speech) is an enriching state for a writer. Then the written word ... takes on an intensity of its own. Nothing gets exteriorized or dissipated; all is concentrated within.”

May Sarton

About This Quote

Isolation in an unfamiliar environment forces a writer to internalize experience, sharpening perception and intensifying expression.

In simple terms: Solitude sharpens creative focus.

Key Takeaway

Alone, the writer's inner world becomes vivid.

Themes

solitude creativity perception intensity self-reflection

Mood

contemplative intense lonely

Type

personal essay philosophical observation

When to use this quote

  • writing in a new city
  • traveling alone
  • experiencing cultural dislocation
  • creative block
  • seeking inspiration

Key Concepts

concentration internalization language emotion

Practical Applications

  • journal writing
  • fiction drafting

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does physical isolation affect mental clarity?
  • What role does unfamiliarity play in artistic intensity?
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