That, incidentally, gives me the greatest possible…
![“That, incidentally, gives me the greatest possible pleasure—the knowledge that we are all linked by our friendship with a group of fictional people. What a pleasant club of which to be a member! [from the preface; on writing for people around the world]” quote by Alexander McCall Smith](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/9bf/alexander-mccall-smith-372_around-the-world_that-incidentally-gives-me-the-greatest_2630833.png)
““That, incidentally, gives me the greatest possible pleasure—the knowledge that we are all linked by our friendship with a group of fictional people. What a pleasant club of which to be a member! [from the preface; on writing for people around the world]””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Celebrates the shared joy of readers connecting through fictional characters, forming a global community of imagination.
In simple terms: Readers bond over stories, creating a worldwide friendship club.
Key Takeaway
Embrace reading to feel part of a larger, imaginative community.
Themes
friendship
imagination
community
literature
global connection
Mood
joyful
reflective
inclusive
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- book clubs
- online forums
- personal reflection
- teaching literature
Key Concepts
shared narrative
emotional resonance
Questions to Reflect On
- How does a favorite character make you feel connected?
- What does belonging to a literary community mean to you?
A Different Perspective
Not everyone feels linked to fiction; some may prefer non‑fiction.