“On Keeping a Journal.
Superficial to understand the journal as just a receptacle for one’s private, secret thoughts—like a confidante who is deaf, dumb, and illiterate. In the journal I do not just express myself more openly than I could do to any person; I create myself.
The journal is a vehicle for my sense of selfhood. It represents me as emotionally and spiritually independent. Therefore (alas) it does not simply record my actual, daily life but rather—in many cases—offers an alternative to it.”
― Reborn: Journals and Notebooks, 1947-1963
Superficial to understand the journal as just a receptacle for one’s private, secret thoughts—like a confidante who is deaf, dumb, and illiterate. In the journal I do not just express myself more openly than I could do to any person; I create myself.
The journal is a vehicle for my sense of selfhood. It represents me as emotionally and spiritually independent. Therefore (alas) it does not simply record my actual, daily life but rather—in many cases—offers an alternative to it.”
― Reborn: Journals and Notebooks, 1947-1963
“What a comfort is this journal. I tell myself to myself and throw the burden on my book and feel relieved.”
― I Know My Own Heart: The Diaries, 1791-1840
― I Know My Own Heart: The Diaries, 1791-1840
“There’s only one opinion that counts. It’s your opinion. It may be wrong, but it’s yours and that’s the one that counts.”
―
―
“Adapt or perish, now as ever, is nature’s inexorable imperative.”
― The Industries of the Future
― The Industries of the Future
Shyla’s 2025 Year in Books
Take a look at Shyla’s Year in Books, including some fun facts about their reading.
More friends…
Favorite Genres
Polls voted on by Shyla
Lists liked by Shyla





















