Behave Quote by Stig Dagerman
“How is it possible on the one hand, for example, to behave as if nothing on earth were more important than literature, and on the other fail to see that wherever one looks, people are struggling against hunger and will necessarily consider that the most important thing is what they earn at the end of the month? Because this is where he (the writer) is confronted with a new paradox: while all he wanted was to write for those who are hungry, he now discovers that it is only those who have plenty to eat who have the leisure to take notice of his existence.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: "The Man Who Thought He Was a Woman" by Stig Dagerman, 1955
Writers often feel torn between literary passion and the harsh realities of poverty, creating a paradox of audience and relevance.
In simple terms: Writers struggle between art and poverty.
Key Takeaway
Balance art with social awareness.
Themes
literature
poverty
paradox
social responsibility
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- publishing
- activism
- community outreach
- education programs
Key Concepts
existentialism
ethical dilemma
Questions to Reflect On
- How can writers address hunger without alienating affluent readers?
- What responsibilities do artists have to society?
A Different Perspective
The paradox may oversimplify complex socioeconomic dynamics.
