For all I know, I am beginning with the ending. My page one can wind up a year later as page two hundred, if it's still even around. Philip Roth beginendhundred Change image and share on social
I write fiction and I'm told it's autobiography, I write autobiography and I'm told it's fiction, so since I'm so dim and they're so smart, let them decide what it is or it isn't. Philip Roth autobiographydecidedim Change image and share on social
Writing, for me, was a feat of self-preservation. If I did not do it, I would die. So I did it. Obstinacy, not talent, saved my life. Philip Roth diefeatlife Change image and share on social
I have no desire to write fiction. I did what I did, and it's done. There's more to life than writing and publishing fiction. There is another way entirely, amazed as I am to discover it at this late date. Philip Roth amazedatedesire share on social
Literature isn't a moral beauty contest. Its power arises from the authority and audacity with which the impersonation is pulled off; the belief it inspires is what counts. Philip Roth ariseaudacityauthority Change image and share on social
Unless one is inordinately fond of subordination, one is always at war. Philip Roth fondinordinatelysubordination Change image and share on social
I think I write and publish as often as I do because I can't bear being without a book to work on... I don't feel I have this to say or that to say or this story to tell, but I know I want to be occupied with the writing process while I'm living. Philip Roth bearbookfeel share on social
Old age isn't a battle; old age is a massacre. Philip Roth agebattlemassacre Change image and share on social
That's what you're looking for as a writer when you're working. You're looking for your own freedom. To lose your inhibition to delve deep into your memory and experiences and life and then to find the prose that will persuade the reader. Philip Roth deepdelveexperience share on social
I don't ask writers about their work habits. I really don't care. Philip Roth carehabitwork Change image and share on social
