Writing is like getting married. One should never commit oneself until one is amazed at one's luck

Writing is like getting married. One should never commit oneself until one is amazed at one's luck

Iris Murdoch, a renowned British novelist and philosopher, once famously said, “Writing is like getting married. One should never commit oneself until one is amazed at one's luck.” This quote encapsulates the essence of the creative process and the deep emotional investment that goes into both writing and marriage.

For Murdoch, writing was not just a profession, but a deeply personal and transformative experience. Just like marriage, writing requires a commitment of time, energy, and emotional investment. It is a journey of self-discovery, where the writer delves deep into their own thoughts, emotions, and experiences to create something meaningful and lasting.

In the context of Murdoch’s own life, this quote takes on a deeper meaning. Murdoch was known for her complex and introspective novels that explored themes of love, morality, and the human condition. Her writing was deeply personal and reflective of her own struggles and triumphs. Just as in marriage, Murdoch believed that one should only commit to writing when they are truly amazed at the opportunity and privilege of being able to create something meaningful and impactful.

Murdoch’s quote also speaks to the idea of patience and waiting for the right moment to fully commit to writing. Just as one should not rush into marriage without being fully ready and committed, one should also not rush into writing without being fully prepared and inspired. Writing requires a certain level of dedication, discipline, and passion, and one should only embark on this journey when they are truly ready to give it their all.