Art Quote by Robert McKee
““Beyond imagination and insight, the most important component of talent is perseverance—the will to write and rewrite in pursuit of perfection. Therefore, when inspiration sparks the desire to write, the artist immediately asks: Is this idea so fascinating, so rich in possibility, that I want to spend months, perhaps years, of my life in pursuit of its fulfillment? Is this concept so exciting that I will get up each morning with the hunger to write? Will this inspiration compel me to sacrifice all of life's other pleasures in my quest to perfect its telling? If the answer is no, find another idea. Talent and time are a writer's only assets. Why give your life to an idea that's not worth your life?””
About This Quote
Source Book: Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting, 1997
Perseverance is the essential talent component; writers must commit fully to ideas that truly inspire them, otherwise seek new concepts.
In simple terms: Commit to inspiring ideas, otherwise move on.
Key Takeaway
Pursue only ideas that ignite lasting passion.
Themes
perseverance
creativity
focus
discipline
Mood
determined
reflective
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- writing projects
- novel drafting
- screenplay development
- artistic pursuits
Key Concepts
talent development
creative process
motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- What ideas truly excite you daily?
- How do you assess an idea's long‑term potential?
A Different Perspective
If an idea feels fleeting, you may waste years on it.
