Meaning:
The quote "Well I don't write, I attempt to scribble here and there. And no, nothing ever so grand as being published" by Charles Keating, a lawyer, conveys a sense of humility and self-deprecation. Keating acknowledges that he does not consider himself a writer in the traditional sense, but rather someone who engages in sporadic and informal writing. Furthermore, Keating dismisses the idea of achieving the grand accomplishment of being published, suggesting that his writing endeavors are not driven by aspirations of recognition or validation.
Charles Keating, best known for his involvement in the savings and loan scandal of the 1980s, was a lawyer and businessman whose career was marked by controversy and legal disputes. While Keating is not widely recognized as a literary figure, this quote offers a glimpse into his personal perspective on writing and creativity.
In the quote, Keating's use of the phrase "attempt to scribble here and there" suggests a casual and unstructured approach to writing. Rather than portraying himself as a dedicated or disciplined writer, Keating characterizes his writing activities as sporadic and perhaps even haphazard. This choice of language reflects a lack of formality and suggests that Keating's writing is more of a casual pursuit rather than a deliberate craft.
The statement "nothing ever so grand as being published" reveals Keating's modesty and lack of pretension regarding his writing. By disavowing any aspirations for grandeur or public recognition, Keating distances himself from the traditional image of an author seeking acclaim and validation through publication. Instead, he positions his writing as a personal and unassuming endeavor, detached from the expectations and pressures of the literary world.
It is worth noting that the context in which this quote was made may have influenced Keating's remarks. Given his background as a lawyer and businessman, Keating's focus was likely on his professional endeavors rather than on establishing himself as a writer. The quote may reflect his down-to-earth and pragmatic attitude towards creativity, emphasizing personal expression over public validation.
In conclusion, Charles Keating's quote "Well I don't write, I attempt to scribble here and there. And no, nothing ever so grand as being published" offers insights into his attitude towards writing and creativity. Through his choice of language and tone, Keating presents himself as a modest and unassuming individual, downplaying any notions of literary ambition or recognition. While not widely recognized for his writing, this quote provides a glimpse into an aspect of Keating's personal perspective and adds depth to our understanding of his character beyond his legal and business exploits.