To shift the structure of a sentence alters the meaning of that sentence, as definitely and inflexibly as the position of a camera alters the meaning of the object photographed.
Joan DidionRead
The writer is always tricking the reader into listening to their dream.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Writers often manipulate narratives to engage readers in their imaginative visions.
Joan Didion's quote suggests that a writer's primary role is to captivate the reader's attention and immerse them in a crafted dream world. This act of 'tricking' is not about deception but rather about skillfully guiding readers through the authorβs imagination, allowing them to experience a journey that transcends reality.
Themes
WritingDreamReaderImaginationNarrative
In practice
Example use cases
During a writing workshop, I used Didion's quote to illustrate how narrative techniques can engage readers.
More from Joan Didion
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