Authorship Quote by Samuel Johnson
“There is nothing more dreadful to an author than neglect; compared with which reproach, hatred, and opposition are names of happiness; yet this worst, this meanest fate, every one who dares to write has reason to fear.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Reflections on Authorship, 1765
The author warns that neglect is the greatest fear for writers, worse than criticism, as it threatens the very act of writing
In simple terms: Neglect is a writer’s deepest dread, surpassing criticism or hatred
Key Takeaway
Avoid neglect; protect the act of writing
Themes
writing
neglect
fear
creative struggle
criticism
Mood
thoughtful
serious
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- Writing workshops
- publishing deadlines
- creative blocks
- literary criticism
Key Concepts
Artistic responsibility
creative risk
literary anxiety
authorial duty
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you confront neglect in your creative process?
- Can criticism ever be more damaging than neglect?
A Different Perspective
Even with fear, some writers may find neglect motivating
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