This quote essentially speaks to the importance of individuality and authenticity in the realm of writing. It suggests that a writer should resist the temptation to become an ‘institution’ – a term that here could be understood as a set of established norms, practices, or expectations. When a writer becomes an ‘institution’, they risk losing their unique voice and perspective, as they might start to conform to what is expected or accepted in the literary world, rather than staying true to their own vision and ideas.
In the context of personal development, this quote could be interpreted as a call to avoid falling into the trap of societal expectations or norms at the expense of one’s individuality. It’s about staying true to oneself and one’s values, even when faced with pressure to conform.
In today’s world, this idea is particularly relevant given the influence of social media and the pressure many people feel to present a certain image or persona online. Writers, artists, and individuals in general might feel the need to fit into a certain mold or brand themselves in a certain way to gain popularity or acceptance. However, this quote serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining one’s unique voice and perspective, and not sacrificing authenticity for the sake of fitting in or becoming an ‘institution’.