Art Quote by Tama Janowitz
“If you want to be a writer, all you need is a piece of paper and a pencil, and I had a manual typewriter. It doesn't cost money to write. It costs money to make art. So I would just write. I would hand out stories in the classes in high school. And the teacher would say, "Whatever you do, don't become a writer."”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Writer’s Life, 1980
Writing requires only basic tools, but the industry demands costly production; the quote critiques discouragement from authority figures.
In simple terms: Writing is cheap; making art costs money; teachers may discourage writers.
Key Takeaway
Write regardless of external doubts.
Themes
writing
education
art
economics
authority
Mood
inspirational
defiant
Type
educational
artistic
When to use this quote
- High school classrooms
- creative workshops
- self‑publishing
- grant applications
- artistic careers
Key Concepts
Creative freedom
financial barriers
mentor influence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can writers overcome financial barriers?
- What role should teachers play in nurturing writers?
A Different Perspective
Economic hurdles can stifle creativity.
