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If a novelist tells you something she knows or thinks, and you believe her, that is not because either of you think she is God, but because she is doing her work - as a novelist.
A. S. Byatt
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Interpretation

What this quote means

A novelist's truth is rooted in their craft, not in divinity.

This quote highlights the idea that the connection and belief readers have with a novelist's work stem from the author's authentic representation of their knowledge and thoughts through storytelling. It emphasizes the role of the novelist as a professional creator rather than a divine figure, suggesting that the value of their work is in their dedication to craft and the truth they convey through it.

Themes

NovelistTruthCraftStorytellingAuthenticity

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about the importance of literature, one might use this quote to emphasize the value of the author's perspective.

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Never stop paying attention to things. Never make your mind up finally. Do not hold beliefs.
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Only write to me, write to me, I love to see the hop and skip and sudden starts of your ink.
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I am a creature of my pen. My pen is the best of me.
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