Cyril Connolly: 'Better to write for yourself and have no public, than to write for the public and have no self.'

Better to write for yourself and have no public, than to write for the public and have no self.

Cyril Connolly, a renowned English writer and critic, once said, 'Better to write for yourself and have no public, than to write for the public and have no self.' This quote encapsulates the essence of true artistic expression and the importance of maintaining one's authenticity in the face of public expectations. It emphasizes the idea that the satisfaction and fulfillment derived from staying true to oneself far surpass the fleeting and shallow praise of the public.At first glance, Connolly's quote seems rather straightforward. It encourages writers to prioritize their own creative instincts and personal passion over catering to the demands and expectations of a wider audience. In essence, it advocates for a genuine and authentic approach to writing, where the author's individuality shines through every word.The significance of Connolly's words lies in the inherent conflict between personal fulfillment and public recognition. Writing solely to please the public might garner temporary acclaim and adoration, but it risks eroding the writer's creative essence. In contrast, when writers focus on their own artistic truth, they establish a profound connection with their craft and have the potential to create something truly meaningful and timeless.However, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept to delve deeper into the profound implications of Connolly's quote. Existentialism, a philosophical movement championed by thinkers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, explores the intricacies of human existence in a seemingly indifferent universe. It posits that individuals possess freedom and responsibility for defining the meaning and purpose of their lives.Drawing from existentialist principles, we can interpret Connolly's quote as encouraging writers to embrace their freedom of self-expression and disregard the external pressures to conform. By doing so, writers retain their authenticity and maintain a firm grip on their sense of self in the face of societal expectations.The choice Connolly presents is not limited to writers alone; it extends to all individuals engaged in creative pursuits. It serves as a reminder that true fulfillment comes from staying true to oneself rather than seeking validation from outside sources. It is through this genuine expression of self that one can find solace, contentment, and a sense of purpose.In exploring this dichotomy between writing for oneself and writing for the public, Connolly underscores the importance of introspection and self-reflection. By writing for oneself, writers have the opportunity to delve deep into their own thoughts, emotions, and experiences. They can explore the complexities of their own existence, gain greater self-awareness, and tap into their unique perspective. This introspective journey allows writers to produce work that resonates not only with themselves but also with individuals who connect with their authentic voice and narrative.On the other hand, writing solely for public validation may lead to a loss of identity and creativity. The act of conforming to societal expectations and sacrificing one's artistic truth stifles personal growth and limits the potential for innovation and originality. It is through embracing one's individuality that writers can create something truly remarkable, something that touches the souls of their readers.In conclusion, Cyril Connolly's quote, 'Better to write for yourself and have no public, than to write for the public and have no self,' carries immense meaning and importance for writers and creative individuals. It reinforces the significance of remaining true to oneself in the pursuit of artistic expression. By embracing one's own vision and disregarding external validation, writers can tap into the depths of their creativity, establish a profound connection with their work, and create something genuinely meaningful – an accomplishment that far surpasses the fleeting praise of the public. So let us heed Connolly's words, for in doing so, we honor not only the craft of writing but the very essence of our own selves.