Book Quote by Sarah Dessen
“Usually when I finish the draft of a book, I'm sure I'll never write another one. I'm just that tired and sick of myself. But then another idea starts percolating. It usually begins with the narrator's name, then some idea that intrigues me about her life or situation. I try to ignore it as long as I can, because I know when I start writing, I'll be right back into it, every single day. But eventually, I just have to. It's a compulsion!”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Author Talk, 2015, Sarah Dessen on writing process
The author feels a compulsive drive to write despite exhaustion, sparked by new ideas that surface unexpectedly, leading to relentless daily work
In simple terms: Writing becomes an unavoidable obsession when inspiration strikes
Key Takeaway
Embrace the compulsion but set boundaries for health
Themes
creativity
compulsion
writing process
Mood
determined
reflective
Type
advice
personal narrative
When to use this quote
- starting a new manuscript
- overcoming writer's block
- daily writing routine
- managing burnout
Key Concepts
psychology of motivation
creative cycles
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance creative drive with self‑care?
- What signals tell you it's time to start a new project?
A Different Perspective
Compulsion can lead to burnout if not balanced
