Psychology Quote by Paul Valery
““I believed, rather more accurately, that a work resolutely thought out and sought for in the hazards of the mind, systematically, and through a determined analysis of definite and previously prescribed conditions, whatever its value might be once it had been produced, did not leave the mind of its creator without having modified him, and forced him to recognize and in some way reorganize himself. I said to myself that it was not the accomplished work, and its appearance and effect in the world, that can fulfill and edify us; but only the way in which we have done it. ””
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Art of Writing", early 20th century
The value of work lies in the transformative process on the creator, not just its external success.
In simple terms: Creation changes the creator.
Key Takeaway
Focus on the process, not just outcomes.
Themes
growth
process
self‑development
Mood
contemplative
inspirational
Type
philosophical
creative
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- research projects
- personal development plans
Key Concepts
Philosophy of art
creative psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your work reshape you?
- What process steps matter most?
A Different Perspective
Process may not guarantee external impact.
![“There were times when [he] allowed himself to see clearly that he would end his working life, that was to say, his conscious thinking life, in this task, that all his thoughts would have been another man's thoughts, all his work another man's work. And then he thought it did not perhaps matter so…” quote by A.S. Byatt](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/085/a-s-byatt-5275_another-man_there-were-times-when-he-allowed-himself_2789010.jpg)
