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Poetry Quote by Oscar Wilde

“I wish i could write them down, these little coloured parables or poems that live for a moment in some cell of my brain, and then leave it to go wandering elsewhere. I hate writing; the mere act of writing a thing down is troublesome to me. I want some fine medium, and look for it in vain.” quote by Oscar Wilde
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““I wish i could write them down, these little coloured parables or poems that live for a moment in some cell of my brain, and then leave it to go wandering elsewhere. I hate writing; the mere act of writing a thing down is troublesome to me. I want some fine medium, and look for it in vain.””

Oscar Wilde

About This Quote

Source Play: Lady Windermere's Fan, 1892

The speaker laments the fleeting nature of inspiration and their aversion to writing, seeking a perfect medium that never arrives.

In simple terms: Ideas vanish quickly; writing feels burdensome.

Key Takeaway

Find a way to capture thoughts without pressure.

Themes

creativity frustration impermanence

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • journaling
  • brainstorming
  • creative workshops
  • digital note‑taking

Key Concepts

aestheticism expression mental imagery

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you honor fleeting ideas without formal writing?
  • What alternative methods could preserve your thoughts?
A Different Perspective

Finding a medium may still require effort and discipline.

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