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Assuming Quote by William Zinsser

“Writing is such lonely work that I try to keep myself cheered up. If something strikes me as funny in the act of writing, I throw it in just to amuse myself. If I think it's funny I assume a few other people will find it funny, and that seems to me to be a good day's work.” quote by William Zinsser
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“Writing is such lonely work that I try to keep myself cheered up. If something strikes me as funny in the act of writing, I throw it in just to amuse myself. If I think it's funny I assume a few other people will find it funny, and that seems to me to be a good day's work.”

William Zinsser

About This Quote

Source Book: On Writing Well, William Zinsser, 1976

Writing can be solitary, so the author uses humor to lift spirits and hopes others share the amusement.

In simple terms: Writing is lonely; humor helps.

Key Takeaway

Add humor to lighten solitary work.

Themes

loneliness creativity humor

Mood

lighthearted inspirational

Type

creative motivational

When to use this quote

  • solo writing
  • blogging
  • stand‑up comedy

Key Concepts

self‑motivation audience connection

Questions to Reflect On

  • What jokes can you weave into your work?
  • How does shared laughter affect your writing process?
A Different Perspective

Relying on humor may not address deeper isolation.

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