Life's Trial
Life tests the writer. Only by enduring trials can he write something of substance.
John Steinbeck
American writer, Nobel Prize laureate, author of 'The Grapes of Wrath' and 'Of Mice and Men'.
All moments: John Steinbeck
- Suffering and Human Dignity — John Steinbeck
In human suffering, I see their greatness. Misery reveals the true nature of a person.
- A Writer's Vision — John Steinbeck
Every writer sees the world through his own prism. This gives him both the right and the responsibility to speak.
- Voice of the Common People — John Steinbeck
I write about ordinary people because they are the foundation of our society, their stories deserve to be heard.
- On the True Purpose of Art — John Steinbeck
Art exists to help man survive. It gives us hope and meaning.
- The Writer as Society's Conscience — John Steinbeck
A writer is the conscience of society. His duty is to tell the truth, even when it hurts.
- Flaws and Genius — John Steinbeck
I am imperfect as a man, but perfection is not the goal of a writer. His goal is to be truthful.
Related moments
- Documenting History — Questlove
As a documentarian, I feel a responsibility to preserve the history of Black music and culture
- All Music Is Folk Music — Louis Armstrong
All music is folk music. I ain't never heard a horse sing a song.
- The Art of Service — John Legend
As an artist, I see my role as serving humanity and raising my voice for justice
- The Power of Compassion — Michael Jackson
The most important thing is love and compassion. They override everything.
- Music Is Life — Jon Batiste
Music is a spiritual practice, a therapy, a way to connect us to ourselves and each other
- Compromise and Conscience — Bob Dylan
I'll never sell my soul for money or fame. It's my only true asset.