Afternoons Quote by Zadie Smith
““Q: Where and when do you do your writing? A: Any small room with no natural light will do. As for when, I have no particular schedules... afternoons are best, but I'm too lethargic for any real regime. When I'm in the flow of something I can do a regular 9 to 5; when I don't know where I'm going with an idea, I'm lucky if I do two hours of productive work. There is nothing more off-putting to a would-be novelist to hear about how so-and-so wakes up at four in the a.m, walks the dog, drinks three liters of black coffee and then writes 3,000 words a day, or that some other asshole only works half an hour every two weeks, does fifty press-ups and stands on his head before and after the "creative moment." I remember reading that kind of stuff in profiles like this and becoming convinced everything I was doing was wrong. What's the American phrase? If it ain't broke...””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Literary Magazine, 2023
The author critiques the myth of rigid writing schedules, emphasizing personal rhythm and the futility of comparing creative habits.
In simple terms: Creative work thrives on personal rhythm, not strict schedules.
Key Takeaway
Find your own writing rhythm.
Themes
creativity
productivity
individualism
Mood
thoughtful
encouraging
Type
advice
reflective
When to use this quote
- novelists
- freelance writers
- students
Key Concepts
myth of the disciplined writer
self‑discipline
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal habits support your flow?
- How can you honor your own pace?
A Different Perspective
Rigid schedules can stifle creativity and cause anxiety.
