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Black Quote by Sylvia Townsend Warner

“about ten days ago I got started on a new book, and am completely, brazenly devoted to it: my hair is uncut, my letters are unwritten, the house is a shambles, and I sit here as happy as Mrs. Jellaby, though I am in 1836, not Africa. It won't go on like this, I shall fall over some obstacle, and…” quote by Sylvia Townsend Warner
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“about ten days ago I got started on a new book, and am completely, brazenly devoted to it: my hair is uncut, my letters are unwritten, the house is a shambles, and I sit here as happy as Mrs. Jellaby, though I am in 1836, not Africa. It won't go on like this, I shall fall over some obstacle, and wake out of my dreams with a black eye and broken shins: but while it does last, I daren't interrupt it. I haven't had such a spell of writing for nearly three years.”

Sylvia Townsend Warner

About This Quote

Source Book: Lolly Willowes, 1926

The writer describes an all‑consuming creative passion that disrupts daily life, yet she clings to it despite inevitable setbacks.

In simple terms: Intense focus on writing overtakes routine.

Key Takeaway

Embrace the flow but plan for balance.

Themes

creativity obsession balance discipline

Mood

introspective determined

Type

personal reflective

When to use this quote

  • starting a novel
  • overcoming writer’s block
  • managing time
  • handling burnout

Key Concepts

artistic immersion flow state self‑sacrifice

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you sustain passion without sacrificing well‑being?
  • What boundaries will protect you from burnout?
A Different Perspective

The devotion may lead to neglect of health and responsibilities.

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