A writer wants something more than money for his work: he wants permanence.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote delves into the deeper motivations of writers and artists. It suggests that the true aspiration of a writer extends beyond financial gain; they seek a lasting legacy and a sense of permanence through their work.
At its core, this quote highlights the notion that creative individuals, like writers, are driven by a desire to leave their mark on the world. While monetary rewards are essential for sustaining a livelihood, they are often secondary to the writer's desire for their words and ideas to endure through time.
The quest for permanence in writing can be seen as an attempt to achieve immortality. By crafting stories, poems, or essays that resonate with readers across generations, writers hope to transcend their own lifetimes and make a lasting impact on the world.
Moreover, the quote underscores the idea that writers are motivated by a sense of purpose and the belief that their words can shape the thoughts, emotions, and beliefs of future generations. In this sense, writing becomes a means of contributing to the collective human experience and influencing the course of history.
While financial compensation is undoubtedly important, this quote invites us to recognize the intrinsic passion and ambition that drive writers to create works of enduring significance. It emphasizes that the true reward for a writer lies in the lasting impact of their words, as they seek to become a part of the literary and cultural tapestry of humanity.
Who said the quote?
The quote "A writer wants something more than money for his work: he wants permanence." is often attributed to A. A. Milne (Bio / Quotes). A. A. Milne was a British author and playwright best known for creating the beloved children's character Winnie-the-Pooh.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
Consider the case of William Shakespeare, one of the most enduring figures in literary history. Shakespeare wrote plays and sonnets that have continued to captivate audiences for over four centuries. In the late 16th and early 17th centuries, Shakespeare was a successful playwright, but his motivations went beyond mere financial gain. He sought something more profound—an enduring legacy.
Shakespeare’s works were initially performed in the Globe Theatre and published in folios, but his primary concern was not just financial profit. He desired to create something that would resonate through time, something that would be remembered long after his death. His writings explore timeless themes of human nature, love, and ambition, making them relevant across generations. This quest for permanence was evident in how he crafted his characters and narratives with depth and complexity, aiming to leave a mark that transcended the momentary successes of his career.
Shakespeare’s influence extends far beyond his lifetime. His plays are still performed around the world, his lines quoted in everyday speech, and his insights into human nature continually examined and discussed. This illustrates the essence of the quote: Shakespeare sought more than money; he aimed for a lasting impact through his work, achieving a form of immortality through the permanence of his contributions to literature and culture.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
Imagine a modern-day author who is writing a novel. While financial compensation for the book’s sales is important, this author is driven by a deeper desire—to leave a lasting imprint on the literary world. The author pours time and energy into creating a compelling story with rich, multidimensional characters and thought-provoking themes. This dedication reflects a desire for permanence, beyond the immediate gratification of monetary success.
In practical terms, this might mean the author engages in meticulous research to ensure historical accuracy, develops intricate plots that challenge readers, and invests in revising and refining their manuscript to meet high standards of quality. The aim is not just to achieve short-term sales or accolades but to craft a work that will resonate with readers across generations. The author might also seek ways to ensure their work is preserved and continues to be studied, such as participating in literary discussions, engaging with scholarly communities, or ensuring their work is available in various formats for future readers.
In essence, applying this quote in real life involves recognizing that true satisfaction and impact often come from creating something of lasting value. It’s about striving for a legacy that endures long after the immediate rewards have faded. By focusing on quality, depth, and relevance, individuals can ensure their contributions have a lasting influence, embodying the idea that the pursuit of permanence can be a powerful motivator and measure of success.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
