The secret to being a writer is that you have to write. It’s not enough to think about writing or to study literature or plan a future life as an author. You really have to lock yourself away, alone, and get to work.

Meaning

The quote reflects a simple truth about life. It conveys that life rarely follows a perfect plan, while hinting that the present moment deserves attention.

Theme

Many memorable quotes revolve around life. The theme resonates widely because life affects every decision we make, reinforcing that every stage of life offers lessons.

About the Author

A number of familiar sayings are associated with Augusten Burroughs. This one stands out due to its focus on life.

Style and Structure

The phrasing is minimalistic, using contrast to focus attention on the core idea.

FAQ

What does this quote mean?
life rarely follows a perfect plan.

Why is it popular?
It speaks clearly about life, making it widely relatable.

How can it be applied?
It encourages us to we focus on the present moment.