Let me be very clear. For me geography does not exist! I…
““Let me be very clear. For me geography does not exist! I strongly object to the whole concept of “foreign literature”...and speaking of national identity: that is how dictatorships get started! In literature there is no periphery and no center; there are only writers. The problem is not geographic but rather numeric. In the 19th century there were at least thirty literary geniuses in Russia, Germany, France, England and the United States. Today we are lucky if there are five writers of that caliber in the whole world...Where does one find good literature today? Mostly in third world countries, because adversity, isolation, combat provide good working conditions. It is harder to be a good writer in a so-called “civilized” country, in the so-called “democracies.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote argues that geographic boundaries are irrelevant to literary quality; true talent is scarce worldwide, and hardship often fosters better writing than comfortable societies.
In simple terms: Geography doesn’t determine literary value; hardship can inspire better writing.
Key Takeaway
Seek diverse voices beyond mainstream markets.
Themes
literature
geography
talent
hardship
culture
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- publishing
- education
- reading clubs
- literary criticism
Key Concepts
cultural relativism
creative adversity
elitism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do economic and political systems affect literary production?
- What can be done to support writers in stable societies?
A Different Perspective
The claim may overlook systemic barriers that limit access to publishing for many talented writers.