This quote emphasizes the importance of action over intent. It suggests that a person’s ambitions or desires are not validated by mere words, but by their actions. In this context, Hemingway is highlighting that the desire to be a writer is not enough, one must be actively writing. It’s a call to action, urging us to not just dream about our aspirations, but to actively work towards them.

The quote can be seen as a critique of those who romanticize the idea of being a writer without understanding or engaging in the hard work it involves. It’s a reminder that writing, like any other skill, requires practice, dedication, and perseverance. It isn’t enough to want to be a writer, one must write.

This idea can be applied to any profession or skill. For instance, if someone says they want to be a musician but doesn’t practice their instrument, they’re not truly striving towards their goal. It’s a universal concept that transcends beyond writing and can be applied to any aspect of life where there’s a gap between what we desire and what we do.

In today’s world, this quote is extremely relevant. In the era of social media, many people project an image of who they want to be, often without putting in the necessary work to achieve these goals. This quote serves as a reminder that achieving any goal requires action.

In terms of personal development, this quote emphasizes the importance of discipline, consistency, and hard work. It encourages us to move beyond mere wishful thinking and take concrete steps towards our goals. Whether it’s learning a new skill, improving our health, or pursuing a passion, the key is to start acting on our intentions. It’s a powerful reminder that what we do, not what we say, defines who we are and what we become.