Of the widow's countless death-duties there is really just one that matters: on the first anniversary of her husband's death the widow should think I kept myself alive.
Joyce Carol OatesRead
A good, sympathetic review is always a wonderful surprise.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A positive review can provide unexpected joy and validation to an artist or writer.
This quote highlights the emotional impact that a kind and understanding critique can have on creatives, emphasizing that thoughtful recognition of one's work can be both uplifting and encouraging. It points out how such appreciation can serve as a delightful affirmation of an individual's efforts and talent, often leading to deeper motivation and a sense of connection with the audience.
Themes
ReviewSurpriseSympathyArtCritique
In practice
Example use cases
During an author event, sharing this quote can highlight the importance of positive feedback among writers.
More from Joyce Carol Oates
All quotes βI never really knew I wanted to 'be' a writer, but I was always writing from a very young age. It became more conscious as an ideal when I was in my twenties.
Joyce Carol OatesRead
I'm drawn to write about upstate New York in the way in which a dreamer might have recurring dreams. My childhood and girlhood were spent in upstate New York, in the country north of Buffalo and West of Rochester. So this part of New York state is very familiar to me and, with its economic difficulties, has become emblematic of much of American life.
Joyce Carol OatesRead
My writing is often a way of 'bearing witness' for others who lack the education and the opportunity to tell their own stories, so I hope that my writing won't be affected too much by my personal life.
Joyce Carol OatesRead
The worst cynicism: a belief in luck.
Joyce Carol OatesRead
. . . there is a wish in the heart of mankind to be distracted and confused. Truth is but one attraction, and not always the most powerful.
Joyce Carol OatesRead
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You should go from place to place recovering the poems that have been written for you to which you can affix your signature. Don't discuss these matters with anyone. Retrieve. Retrieve. When the basket is full someone will appear to whom you can present it.
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