Meaning: This quote by Mary MacLane, a writer known for her unconventional and introspective writing, reflects the profound connection between an author and their work. In this quote, MacLane expresses the idea that her joy at the time was derived from the act of writing and capturing a particular moment in her life. She acknowledges that while the book she wrote may no longer hold the same significance for her, it remains a representation of who she was at that time.

Mary MacLane was an American writer who gained notoriety in the early 20th century for her candid and often controversial autobiographical works. Her writing was characterized by its raw and unfiltered depiction of her inner thoughts and emotions, challenging societal norms and expectations of women during that era.

In this quote, MacLane seems to be reflecting on the evolution of her own identity and how it relates to her writing. She acknowledges that the book she wrote was a product of a particular period in her life, a time when she was a different person with different experiences, perspectives, and emotions. While she may have moved on from that phase of her life, the book stands as a testament to her former self, capturing her thoughts and feelings at that specific moment in time.

The phrase "It no longer amuses me to be all the things I was when I wrote that" suggests a sense of detachment from her previous self. MacLane seems to have distanced herself from the emotions and experiences that fueled her writing at that time. This detachment could be a result of personal growth, changes in perspective, or a shift in her priorities and interests. Despite this change, she acknowledges the significance of the book as a portrayal of her past self, recognizing that it remains an essential part of her personal history and journey as a writer.

This quote also raises questions about the nature of creative expression and the enduring impact of artistic works. It highlights the complex relationship between an artist and their creations, as well as the inevitable evolution of the self over time. As individuals grow and change, their perspectives, values, and priorities often shift, leading to a reevaluation of their past works and the emotions that once fueled them.

In the context of literary creation, this quote underscores the idea that a book, once written, takes on a life of its own, separate from the author's current state of being. It becomes a static representation of a specific moment in the author's life, capturing their thoughts, emotions, and experiences at that time. This separation between the author's present self and their past work highlights the dynamic and transformative nature of personal identity and artistic expression.

Overall, Mary MacLane's quote encapsulates the intricate relationship between an author and their work, emphasizing the ever-evolving nature of personal identity and creative expression. It serves as a reminder of the enduring significance of artistic creations as reflections of the past, even as individuals continue to grow and evolve beyond the emotions and experiences that initially inspired their work.