Skip to content

Bookish Quote by Pamela Paul

“All of us are writers reading other people's writing, turning pages or clicking to the next screen with pleasure and admiration. All of us absorb other people's words, feeling like we have gotten to know the authors personally in our own ways, even if just a tiny bit. True, we may also harbor…” quote by Pamela Paul
Download Open image
““All of us are writers reading other people's writing, turning pages or clicking to the next screen with pleasure and admiration. All of us absorb other people's words, feeling like we have gotten to know the authors personally in our own ways, even if just a tiny bit. True, we may also harbor jealousy or resentment, disbelief or disappointment. We may wish we had written those words ourselves or berate ourselves for knowing we never could or sigh with relief that we didn't, but thank goodness someone else has.””

Pamela Paul

About This Quote

Source Book: The Art of Reading by Pamela Paul, 2023

Reading others' writing creates intimacy, admiration, and sometimes envy, highlighting both connection and personal insecurity.

In simple terms: Reading connects us but can spark jealousy.

Key Takeaway

Embrace admiration, recognize your own voice.

Themes

literature empathy self‑esteem

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

inspirational analytical

When to use this quote

  • book clubs
  • online reading
  • writing workshops
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

identity comparison creative inspiration

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does admiration affect your own writing?
  • What can you learn from feeling envy?
A Different Perspective

Jealousy may hinder authentic appreciation.

2.9 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Pamela Paul

Explore all 21 Pamela Paul quotes

More Bookish quotes

Browse all 18 Bookish quotes