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Saturday

Benchley: Famous writers from A to Z on writing




What does it take to become a famous writer? It’s hard to say, right?

Robert Benchley (1889-1945) was an American humorist and columnist. His work appeared in The New Yorker and Vanity Fair magazines. Also a film writer (and occasional actor), Benchley won the 1935 Academy Award for Best Short Subject for How to Sleep.

Here’s something Robert Benchley said about the being a well-known writer.

“It took me 15 years to discover I had no talent for writing, but I couldn’t give it up because by that time I was too famous.”

Funny, maybe. Despite his recognized flair for wordsmithing, Benchley’s comment might give us pause for thought. How many unskilled writers become famous, and how many truly talented ones seem to go unnoticed?

(Don’t answer that.)


Here’s another Benchley quotation that might be appropriate for working writers, especially when facing pressing deadlines:

“Anyone can do any amount of work, provided it isn't the work he is supposed to be doing at the moment.”
 

Image/s:
A to Z Blogging Challenge promo logo – fair use
Graphic adapted from public domain image

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5 comments:

  1. Oh, my, I'm going to enjoy following this! Andwhat he says is totally true -- my home is never cleaner than when I'm facing a writing deadline. ;)

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  2. I love Benchley's quotes! Looking forward to more posts about famous writers. I"m sure some of the quotes will be inspiring, funny and interesting keepsakes!

    Liesbet @ Roaming About – A Life Less Ordinary

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  3. My favorite theme I've found so far! Can't wait to hear more.

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  4. Lol.. He's funny, though I haven't read him. Maybe I'll make some new friends through your blog. Off to check him out at Wiki.

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