In a letter from November 1913, D.H. Lawrence expresses his complex relationship with writing, particularly when fueled by negative emotions. He suggests that writing during feelings of spite can be a cathartic experience, comparable to the release one feels after a strong sneeze. This metaphor implies that the act of writing serves to purge pent-up emotions, providing a necessary outlet for his frustration and creativity.

Lawrence's comment highlights the transformative power of writing as a means of self-expression. Rather than seeing spite as merely destructive, he frames it as a potential source of inspiration, indicating that intense feelings—whether positive or negative—can lead to powerful creative output. Through this lens, writing becomes a valuable tool for navigating emotional turbulence and achieving clarity.