---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: But it's writing, damn it, not washing…"
description: "\"But it's writing, damn it, not washing the car or putting on eyeliner. If you can take it seriously, we can do business. If you can't or won't, it's ti..."
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/087/stephen-king-13_book_but-it-s-writing-damn-it-not-washing-the_521364.jpg"
---

#  But it's writing, damn it, not washing the car or putting…

![“But it's writing, damn it, not washing the car or putting on eyeliner. If you can take it seriously, we can do business. If you can't or won't, it's time for you to close the book and do something else. Wash the car, maybe.” quote by Stephen King](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/087/stephen-king-13_book_but-it-s-writing-damn-it-not-washing-the_521364.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/087/stephen-king-13_book_but-it-s-writing-damn-it-not-washing-the_521364.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/087/stephen-king-13_book_but-it-s-writing-damn-it-not-washing-the_521364.jpg)

> “But it's writing, damn it, not washing the car or putting on eyeliner. If you can take it seriously, we can do business. If you can't or won't, it's time for you to close the book and do something else. Wash the car, maybe.”

[Stephen King](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/stephen-king/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Writing demands seriousness; treating it like a chore undermines its purpose.

**In simple terms:** Take writing seriously, not as a trivial task.

Key Takeaway

Commit fully or choose another pursuit.

Themes

commitment profession seriousness

Mood

determined challenging

Type

motivational realistic

When to use this quote

- career choice
- creative projects
- writing workshops

Key Concepts

discipline passion

Questions to Reflect On

- Are you willing to prioritize writing over other tasks?
- What would you do if you stopped writing?

A Different Perspective

Not everyone is suited for the dedication required.

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