Book Quote by Paul Auster
““Each book is a new book. I’ve never written it before and I have to teach myself how to write it as I go along. The fact that I’ve written books in the past seems to play no part in it. I always feel like a beginner and I’m continually running into the same difficulties, the same blocks, the same despairs. You make so many mistakes as a writer, cross out so many bad sentences and ideas, discard so many worthless pages, that finally what you learn is how stupid you are. It’s a humbling occupation.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Paris Review, 2015
Writing is a perpetual learning process; past success doesn't guarantee future ease, and humility is key.
In simple terms: Writing always feels new and hard.
Key Takeaway
Embrace beginner mindset; stay humble.
Themes
creativity
humility
learning
writing
Mood
introspective
inspirational
Type
creative
motivational
When to use this quote
- author workshops
- personal journaling
- creative retreats
Key Concepts
self‑efficacy
process orientation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you cultivate humility in your craft?
- What habits help you stay a beginner?
A Different Perspective
Perfectionism can stall progress.
