Quote

When young writers approach me for advice, I remind them, as gently as I can, that they are on their own, with no help available anywhere. Which is how it should be.

— John Banville

Sentiment: NEGATIVE

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✓Similar Perspectives

If I had to give young writers advice, I would say don't listen to writers talking about writing or themselves.

— Lillian Hellman

They're fancy talkers about themselves, writers. If I had to give young writers advice, I would say don't listen to writers talking about writing or themselves.

— Lillian Hellman

As far as advice, that will be in my next book, my next collection. I certainly never like to instruct anyone, but just say as I feel. That's the same as advice, isn't it?

— Fay Wray

It gets really tricky giving advice. The older I get, the less advice I give.

— Anne Heche

I like to encourage young talented writers to try and help them get published and so forth, but that's all. That's the best I can do.

— Oscar Hijuelos

I try not to give too much advice, really, because people have to do their things their way. I got lots of advice when I was young, and I ignored most of it - the good and the bad.

— Patti Smith

At this stage I am not involved with young adults as closely as many other writers. My children are grown up and my grandchildren are still quite young.

— Margaret Mahy

Ultimately I'm the writer for me, but also, anytime one of my friends gets stuck with a bit, they can call me, and I'm pretty good at helping them get there.

— Ron White

✗Opposing Perspectives

Interestingly, young people don't come to you for advice. Especially the ones who are related to you.

— Meryl Streep

Writers and artists never pay attention to advice given by their elders, quite rightly. The only worthwhile advice is the most general: 'Keep trying, don't give up, don't be discouraged, don't pay attention to detractors.' Everyone knows this.

— Joyce Carol Oates