Human beings Quote by Vivian Gornick
“You can't reduce an actual human being; you're just writing! You're not doing anything to another person.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “On Writing and Responsibility”, 1995
Writing should not be treated as a means to manipulate or harm real people.
In simple terms: Writing isn’t harming others.
Respect the humanity of your subjects.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- journalism
- fiction
- academic writing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can writers ever be truly neutral?
- What responsibilities do creators have to real people?
May overlook the power of narrative to influence.