“From my close observation of writers… they fall into two groups: 1) those who bleed copiously and visibly at any bad review, and 2) those who bleed copiously and secretly at any bad review.”
- January 2, 1920 – April 6, 1992
- Born in Russia
- Author, biochemist (professor)
- Wrote many science fiction works, including the Foundation series and the Robotics series
Quote
“From my close observation of writers… they fall into two groups: 1) those who bleed copiously and visibly at any bad review, and 2) those who bleed copiously and secretly at any bad review.”
Explanation
In this quote, Asimov offers a humorous yet insightful commentary on the emotional vulnerability of writers when faced with criticism. He suggests that writers, whether they appear to be deeply affected by a bad review or not, all suffer the same underlying pain from negative feedback—it’s just a matter of how openly or secretly they react. The metaphor of “bleeding” vividly portrays the emotional toll that criticism can have, highlighting how personal and close to heart writing can be, even for those who may not outwardly show it. Asimov’s observation points to the fragility of the creative process, where external judgment often clashes with the personal investment an author puts into their work.
Asimov, who wrote extensively in a variety of genres, knew well the pressures of being a public figure in the literary world. Despite his reputation as one of the most influential science fiction writers of the 20th century, he was not immune to criticism. Writers, like Asimov, often spend years developing their ideas and craft, so any form of negative feedback can feel deeply personal. His categorization of writers into two types, those who react visibly and those who keep their pain hidden, speaks to the universal experience of facing judgment, a challenge even for the most confident of creators. It serves as a reminder that creativity is often intertwined with vulnerability, and the process of writing involves not just creating but also enduring critique.
In today’s digital age, where social media and instant reviews provide immediate feedback, Asimov’s quote is more relevant than ever. Writers still “bleed” when their work is criticized, whether they express it publicly or process it in private. The rapid rise of online critiques and the anonymity of the internet can make such wounds feel even sharper. However, Asimov’s reflection also reminds writers to embrace criticism as part of the growth process, acknowledging that despite the pain, it is through criticism that writers refine their craft and deepen their resilience. Whether visibly or secretly, learning to navigate this emotional terrain is an integral part of the writer’s journey.
