We write to taste life twice, in the moment, and in retrospection.

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We write to taste life twice, in the moment, and in retrospection. — Anaïs Nin · Smartyfair

We write to taste life twice, in the moment, and in retrospection.

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In plain words

When you write about a moment, you live it twice. Once when it happens, and again when you tell it.

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How sure this is: 85% sureThese words were traced back to where they first appeared. That source is listed below.
What turned up: The Diary of Anaïs Nin, Vol. 5 (1947-1955, pub. 1974), entry of February 1954.
Work: The Diary of Anaïs Nin, Vol. 5 (1947-1955)
Occasion: February 1954 · a diary reflection on why she kept writing her whole life
Sources checked: en.wikiquote.orgChecked using claude-fable-5, 22 August 2026Sourced diary entry, February 1954. Primary wording ends 'in retrospection' — the popular 'in retrospect' form is circulation drift; sourced wording entered.