Meaning: The quote "I do what I do, and write what I write, without calculating what is worth what and so on. Fortunately, I am not a banker or an accountant. I feel that there is a time when a political statement needs to be made and I make it," by Arundhati Roy encapsulates the idea of authenticity and the responsibility of an artist or writer to engage with political and social issues. Arundhati Roy is an Indian author and activist known for her novel "The God of Small Things" and her outspoken criticism of social and political injustices. This quote reflects her commitment to using her platform as a writer to address pressing issues without concern for commercial or financial considerations.

Roy's statement highlights the notion that as an artist, her primary motivation is not driven by financial gain or popularity. She emphasizes that she writes and acts based on her convictions and a sense of moral obligation rather than commercial viability. By distancing herself from the roles of a banker or accountant, she rejects the idea of quantifying the value of her work in monetary terms. Instead, she prioritizes the expression of her beliefs and the pursuit of truth in her writing.

The quote also underscores the idea that there are moments when a writer must transcend personal ambition and engage in political discourse. Roy suggests that there are times when the gravity of social and political issues necessitates a response from artists and writers. This aligns with her own history of activism and public commentary on contentious topics such as environmental degradation, government policies, and human rights abuses. Roy's willingness to make political statements through her writing signifies her belief in the power of literature to effect change and provoke critical reflection.

Furthermore, the quote reflects the courage and conviction required to confront controversial or sensitive subjects. It implies a willingness to speak truth to power and challenge established norms, even when doing so may invite criticism or backlash. Roy's unapologetic approach to addressing political issues serves as an example of the role that writers and public figures can play in advocating for social justice and raising awareness about systemic injustices.

In sum, Arundhati Roy's quote encapsulates the ethos of authenticity, moral responsibility, and the intersection of art and activism. It underscores the idea that writers and artists have a role to play in shaping public discourse and advocating for change, even if it means eschewing conventional measures of success. Roy's words serve as a reminder of the potential impact of literature and the importance of using one's platform to address pressing societal concerns.