Doubt Quote by Thomas de Quincey
“But my way of writing is rather to think aloud, and follow my own humours, than much to consider who is listening to me; and, if I stop to consider what is proper to be said to this or that person, I shall soon come to doubt whether any part at all is proper.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Confessions of an English Opium-Eater, 1821
Writing should follow authentic voice, not audience expectations
In simple terms: Write authentically, ignore audience
Key Takeaway
Trust your inner voice
Themes
authenticity
creativity
self‑expression
Mood
introspective
defiant
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- journaling
- creative writing
- public speaking
Key Concepts
Spontaneity
personal voice
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you edit for audience or self?
- How does spontaneity affect clarity?
A Different Perspective
Risk of alienating listeners
