The real writer is one who really writes. Talent is an invention like phlogiston after the fact of fire. Work is its own cure. You have to like it better than being loved.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the importance of taking action and doing the work in order to truly be considered a writer. It suggests that talent alone is not enough; rather, consistent effort and dedication are required. The comparison to phlogiston, an outdated scientific concept, implies that talent is often perceived in retrospect and may be inflated in importance. The quote also highlights the need for the writer to have a genuine passion for their craft and prioritize it over external validation, such as being loved. Ultimately, the cure for becoming a successful writer lies in the act of writing itself.

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