“I don’t like to write like God. It is only because you never do it, though, that the critics think you can’t do it.”
- July 21, 1899 – July 2, 1961
- American
- Novelist, poet, journalist
- Wrote masterpieces such as “The Old Man and the Sea,” “A Farewell to Arms,” and “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” and won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954
Quote
“I don’t like to write like God. It is only because you never do it, though, that the critics think you can’t do it.”
Explanation
In this quote, Hemingway humorously rejects the idea of writing with absolute authority or divine perfection—writing like “God.” He suggests that the act of writing is not about presenting an all-knowing or perfectly controlled narrative, but rather about engaging with the world in a more humble, human way. The second part of the quote addresses the critics’ perception of his work: because he does not write with the omniscient precision or grandeur that they expect, they mistakenly assume he lacks the ability to do so. Hemingway seems to be poking fun at the critics’ limited view of writing, implying that their criticisms stem from an assumption that perfection or grandiosity is the goal of the writer, and that he or she should aim for an unattainable ideal.
Hemingway’s writing style, known for its sparse prose and directness, was often misunderstood or criticized by some for lacking the elaborate flourish found in more classical writing. He was a master of minimalism—writing with economy and precision, leaving much unsaid beneath the surface. This quote reflects his belief that writing is not about being all-knowing or perfect, but about offering authenticity, truth, and human insight. Hemingway also subtly critiques the role of critics, who, in their search for traditional ideals of writing, may fail to recognize the value of more modest, but deeply effective, forms of expression.
In the modern context, this quote can be interpreted as a challenge to those who set rigid standards for creative work. Whether in literature, art, or film, critics often expect certain conventions or perfection, and may fail to appreciate the value of work that doesn’t conform to their expectations. Hemingway’s statement encourages creators to focus on their own unique style and vision, rather than being swayed by the often narrow perspectives of critics. It also reminds us that true artistry is not about being perfect or all-knowing, but about offering a genuine, personal take on the world, even if it doesn’t conform to traditional standards.
