If you’re like me, you have a bunch of post-it and 3×5 cards pinned up on your office wall with certain words and phrases that you find inspirational or motivating. A few days before leaving for Vermont I posted an Arthur Miller quote which I then tacked to my wall in the Vermont office. These are some other phrases I heard during the writer’s residency that stuck with me.
“BALZAC’S HANDS”
This refers to the infamous sculpture by Auguste Rodin of French novelist and playwright Honoré de Balzac.
Balzac by Rodin in Paris
You’ll notice the sculpture is missing its hands, which was controversial at the time because Balzac was such a famous writer. When asked why he did this, Rodin answered, “I have been forced to destroy these hands because they developed a life of their own. They didn’t belong to the rest of the composition. Remember this and remember it well: No part can be more important than the whole.”
“SELF-TRUST”
A reporter once asked Pablo Picasso, “What is your most valuable attribute?” Picasso responded, “Self trust.”
“PREMATURE SENSE OF COMPLETION”
This is what happens when people talk about their work but never finish it, as explained by visiting author Judith Claire Mitchell.
“IF THERE WASN’T THE WORD WRITER, WE’D ALL JUST BE CRAZY”
Also said by Judith Claire Mitchell, and ain’t it the truth!
“I WRITE ABOUT MY FAILURES”
Judith Claire Mitchell quoting a famous writer whose name I can’t remember. I love the sentiment.
“I NEED TO SIT WITH MY RESISTANCE, IN FRONT OF A COMPUTER”
Said by fellow resident and published author Blanche Boyd.
“BE CAREFUL OR YOU’LL END UP IN MY NOVEL”
Written on the sweatshirt of fellow resident and published author Elizabeth Hilts.
Do you have any phrases tacked up on your wall? If you care to share, I would love to know what they are!
Riding Bitch 
February 13, 2013 at 9:52 pm
My phrase, posted up above my computer, by a writer I don’t remember but I think she also got it from someone she couldn’t remember so here it is: “Be regular and orderly in your life so you may be violent and original in your work”
I love all the quotes you posted – thanks Niv
February 13, 2013 at 10:18 pm
Ah yes, I remember that one. I borrowed it from you and had it on the wall when Kaz was alive. Thanks for reminding me!
February 14, 2013 at 3:40 am
I’m not sure if I once read this, heard someone say it, or made it up – “I think, therefore I write.”
February 14, 2013 at 5:56 pm
I like it! Thanks for stopping by and for sharing.