quotations about criticism
I haven't any right to criticize books, and I don't do it except when I hate them. I often want to criticize Jane Austen, but her books madden me so that I can't conceal my frenzy from the reader; and therefore I have to stop every time I begin. Every time I read Pride and Prejudice I want to dig her up and beat her over the skull with her own shin-bone.
MARK TWAIN
letter to A. B. Paine, Sep. 13, 1898
Never demean yourself by talking back to a critic, never. Write those letters to the editor in your head, but don't put them on paper.
TRUMAN CAPOTE
The Paris Review, spring-summer 1957
People like me who lack something are liable to become spiteful critics.
KOBO ABE
The Face of Another
The most accomplished literary work would be reduced to nothing by carping criticism, if the author would listen to all critics and allow every one to erase the passage which pleases him the least.
JEAN DE LA BRUYÈRE
"Of Works of the Mind", Les Caractères
For me, there is only one means of ensuring that I do not lose respect for myself: constant criticism.
CHRISTIAN MORGENSTERN
An Evolution in Aphorisms
Many people value criticism in the early stage of a relationship, but become allergic to it over time. Remember this: No one can survive in a marriage (at least not happily) if they feel more judged than admired. Your partner won't make use of your constructive criticism if there's not a surrounding climate of admiration and respect.
HARRIET LERNER
"12 Simple Steps for a Sustainable Marriage", Huffington Post, January 11, 2012
Being a critic is a terrific method for killing your love of art.
DAVID TOOP
The Wire