Quote by Kurt Vonnegut

Here is a lesson in creative writing.First rule: Do not use semicolons. They are transvestite hermaphrodites representing absolutely nothing. All they do is show you've been to college.And I realize some of you may be having trouble deciding whether I am kidding or not. So from now on I will tell you when I'm kidding.For instance, join the National Guard or the Marines and teach democracy. I'm kidding.We are about to be attacked by Al Qaeda. Wave flags if you have them. That always seems to scare them away. I'm kidding.If you want to really hurt your parents, and you don't have the nerve to be gay, the least you can do is go into the arts. I'm not kidding. The arts are not a way to make a living. They are a very human way of making life more bearable. Practicing an art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow, for heaven's sake. Sing in the shower. Dance to the radio. Tell stories. Write a poem to a friend, even a lousy poem. Do it as well as you possibly can. You will get an enormous reward. You will have created something.

Summary

This quote, attributed to American author Kurt Vonnegut, emphasizes the importance of engaging in the arts as a means of personal fulfillment and self-expression. Vonnegut playfully mocks the rigid rules and conventions of creative writing, suggesting that the pursuit of art should not be bound by academic formalities. He encourages individuals to embrace creativity in any form, emphasizing that the act of creation itself is rewarding and enriching, regardless of one's skill or talent. Ultimately, Vonnegut suggests that artistic expression is an essential and fulfilling aspect of being human.