Laurence Sterne Writing Quotations

Writing, when properly managed, (as you may be sure I think mine is) is but a different name for conversation.

To write a book is for all the world like humming a song.

I have undertaken, you see, to write not only my life, but my opinions also; hoping and expecting that your knowledge of my character, and of what kind of a mortal I am, by the one, would give you a better relish for the other: As you proceed further with me, the slight acquaintance which is now beginning betwixt us, will grow into familiarity; and that, unless one of us is in fault, will terminate in friendship.

That of all the several ways of beginning a book which are now in practice throughout the known world, I am confident my own way of doing it is the bst-- I'm sure it is the most religious-- for I begin with writing the first sentence-- and trusting to Almighty God for the second.

To write a book is for all the world like humming a song—be but in tune with yourself, madam, 'tis no matter how high or how low you take it.

Writings may be compared to wine. Sense is the strength, but wit the flavor.

I write the first sentence and trust in God for the next.

I begin with writing the first sentence—and trusting to Almighty God for the second.