--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: I used to think that one day I should…" description: "\"“I used to think that one day I should write a really great novel, but I've long ceased even to hope for that. All I want people to say is that I do my..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/1ce/w-somerset-maugham-237_people-say_i-used-to-think-that-one-day-i-should-wr_3089557.jpg" --- # I used to think that one day I should write a really great… ![“I used to think that one day I should write a really great novel, but I've long ceased even to hope for that. All I want people to say is that I do my best. I do work. I never let anything slipshod get past me. I think I can tell a good story and I can create characters that ring true.” quote by W. Somerset Maugham](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/1ce/w-somerset-maugham-237_people-say_i-used-to-think-that-one-day-i-should-wr_3089557.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/1ce/w-somerset-maugham-237_people-say_i-used-to-think-that-one-day-i-should-wr_3089557.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/1ce/w-somerset-maugham-237_people-say_i-used-to-think-that-one-day-i-should-wr_3089557.jpg) > ““I used to think that one day I should write a really great novel, but I've long ceased even to hope for that. All I want people to say is that I do my best. I do work. I never let anything slipshod get past me. I think I can tell a good story and I can create characters that ring true.”” [W. Somerset Maugham](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/w-somerset-maugham/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. He no longer dreams of a masterpiece, focusing instead on consistent effort and integrity in his work. **In simple terms:** He values doing his best over fame. Key Takeaway Prioritize steady, honest work over lofty expectations. Themes work ethic humility craftsmanship Mood thoughtful motivational Type personal philosophy advice When to use this quote - daily writing routine - editing drafts - professional standards Key Concepts creative process self‑discipline authenticity Questions to Reflect On - How do you measure success in your craft? - What habits keep you grounded? A Different Perspective Perfectionism can stifle productivity. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet [Writing](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/writing/) ## Related quotes > [My writing routine is: get son off to school and sit down at 8 A.M. 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