Quote I would rather be attacked than unnoticed. For...

“I would rather be attacked than unnoticed. For the worst thing you can do to an author is to be silent as to his works.” - Samuel Johnson

Decryption of quote

"I would rather be attacked than unnoticed."

Imagine pouring your heart and soul into a piece of work, only to have it met with indifference. The silence is deafening, the lack of recognition crushing. It's better to have someone engage with your work, even if it means facing criticism or opposition. At least then, your words have stirred something in them, evoked a reaction.

"For the worst thing you can do to an author is to be silent as to his works."

Authors thrive on feedback, whether positive or negative. It's through this feedback that they can grow and improve as writers. Silence, on the other hand, is a void that offers no room for growth or development. It's like shouting into the void, with no echo to bounce back.

When someone takes the time to engage with an author's work, it shows that their words have resonated with them in some way. It's a form of validation, a confirmation that their thoughts and ideas are worth sharing. Even if the feedback is critical, it's still a form of acknowledgment that their work has made an impact.

"I would rather be attacked than unnoticed."

Being attacked means that someone has taken the time to dissect your work, to engage with it on a deeper level. It shows that your words have sparked a reaction, whether positive or negative. It's better to have someone engage with your work, even if it means facing criticism or opposition.

"For the worst thing you can do to an author is to be silent as to his works."

Authors pour their heart and soul into their creations, hoping to connect with readers on a deeper level. When their work is met with silence, it's like a rejection of their efforts, a dismissal of their thoughts and ideas. It's a form of invisibility that can be more damaging than any criticism.

So, the next time you come across a piece of writing that moves you in some way, don't stay silent. Share your thoughts, engage with the author, let them know that their words have made an impact. It's through this dialogue that writers can continue to grow and evolve, creating works that resonate with readers for years to come.




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