Swimming upstream Quote by Rainbow Rowell
““When I’m writing my own stuff, it’s like swimming upstream. Or … falling down a cliff and grabbing at branches, trying to invent the branches as I fall.” “Yes,” the professor said, reaching out and grasping the air in front of Cath, like she was catching a fly. “That’s how it’s supposed to feel.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: “Carry On” (2020), dialogue between Cath and professor
Writing feels like fighting against a current or falling, yet the struggle is part of the creative process, as affirmed by a mentor.
In simple terms: Writing is hard but rewarding, like swimming upstream.
Key Takeaway
Accept struggle as part of creation.
Themes
creative struggle
mentorship
writing process
Mood
determined
hopeful
Type
literary
inspirational
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- creative coaching
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
resilience
artistic growth
Questions to Reflect On
- What helps you persist when writing feels impossible?
- How can mentorship reshape creative challenges?
A Different Perspective
Not all writers find mentors; struggle can be discouraging.
