I started to send my work to journals when I was 26, which was just a question of when I got the courage up. They were mostly journals I had been reading for the previous six or seven years.

The quote by Marilyn Hacker, "I started to send my work to journals when I was 26, which was just a question of when I got the courage up. They were mostly journals I had been reading for the previous six or seven years," reflects her experience with publishing and the process of overcoming self-doubt to share her work. Hacker highlights that it wasn't a matter of readiness or ability, but rather the courage to take the step of submitting her writing to journals. This moment marks a transition from private creation to public acknowledgment, which many writers find daunting.

Hacker’s mention of reading the journals for six or seven years emphasizes how her connection to these publications wasn’t sudden; she was already familiar with them and had been absorbing their content for years. This suggests that her decision to submit wasn’t based on a random impulse, but a long period of engagement and learning from the literary community. It shows that she had already built a foundation of knowledge and understanding about where her work might fit within the broader literary landscape.

The idea that it was simply a matter of gaining enough courage reveals the common internal struggle faced by many writers. It underscores that, even for someone as experienced as Hacker, fear and self-doubt can hold people back from putting their work into the public eye. The quote reflects the emotional complexity of being a creator—it’s not just about having ideas or talent, but also about confidence in sharing those ideas with others.

The origin of the quote lies in Marilyn Hacker's personal journey as a poet and translator. Known for her work in both English and French poetry, Hacker's career reflects a deep commitment to literary craft and a willingness to embrace the vulnerability that comes with sharing one’s creations. This quote captures her reflection on the path many artists take: a mix of preparation, self-reflection, and the courage to step into the world with their work.