Meaning: Laurell K. Hamilton, a well-known American author, made this statement about the influence of her own interests on her writing. In this quote, Hamilton emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's personal passions and creative impulses as a writer. She suggests that writers must first and foremost entertain themselves through their work before they can hope to captivate and engage their audience. This perspective offers valuable insight into the creative process and the relationship between an author and their work.

Hamilton's assertion that she is more influenced by her own interests than anyone else's speaks to the deeply personal nature of creative expression. As a writer, she prioritizes her individual passions, curiosities, and inspirations, recognizing that these elements are fundamental to the authenticity and integrity of her writing. By emphasizing the significance of self-entertainment, Hamilton highlights the role of personal investment and emotional connection in the creative process. This approach suggests that genuine and compelling writing arises from a place of genuine interest and enthusiasm.

Furthermore, Hamilton's assertion underscores the idea that writers are, in many ways, the first audience for their own work. By emphasizing the importance of entertaining oneself as a writer, she suggests that the creative process is inherently tied to personal fulfillment and satisfaction. This perspective challenges the notion that writers should solely cater to external expectations or market demands, emphasizing the value of creative autonomy and self-expression.

In addition, Hamilton's statement offers valuable insight into the dynamic relationship between writers and their audience. By asserting that writers must entertain themselves in order to entertain others, she highlights the interconnectedness of creative expression and audience engagement. This perspective suggests that genuine enthusiasm and personal investment are essential for creating work that resonates with readers. It also implies that writing born out of a deep sense of personal enjoyment and fulfillment is more likely to connect with and captivate its audience.

Overall, Hamilton's quote encapsulates a profound understanding of the creative process and the intrinsic link between personal interests, creative fulfillment, and audience engagement. Her emphasis on self-entertainment as a foundational aspect of writing underscores the significance of personal passion and authenticity in the craft of storytelling. By prioritizing her own interests as a writer, Hamilton offers a compelling reminder of the power of genuine creative expression and the importance of staying true to one's unique voice and vision.