Assured Quote by Will Self
“In truth, even if they have an imperfect insight into their own methods, I still slightly mistrust writers of fiction who are assured literary critics; it makes me suspect that they favour the word over the world it should describe. Such scribes fall victim too easily to the solecism of equating style with morality.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Book of Disquiet, Will Self, 2009
The author doubts writers who trust critics, fearing they prioritize language over meaning, equating style with morality.
In simple terms: Writers may value words over true meaning.
Key Takeaway
Beware of style over substance.
Themes
literary criticism
authorship
morality
style
meaning
Mood
skeptical
reflective
Type
analytical
critical
When to use this quote
- publishing
- creative writing
- academic critique
- media analysis
Key Concepts
aestheticism
ethical relativism
literary theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape perception?
- When does style become moral judgment?
A Different Perspective
Critics can also offer valuable perspective on craft.
![“In Canada, I've had success raising money. I think I was fortunate enough. But today, I would have to write a very, very bad script not to be financed for the next one. I'm assured at least of the next one, but you're always [only] as good as your last film. I think it's true for anyone.” quote by Philippe Falardeau](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/574/philippe-falardeau-11523_assured_in-canada-i-ve-had-success-raising-money_68419.jpg)
