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Mr. Dortmunder, this is too good a story to just jump in…

“Mr. Dortmunder, this is too good a story to just jump in and tell the end.” Dortmunder hated stories that were that good, but” quote by Donald E. Westlake
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““Mr. Dortmunder, this is too good a story to just jump in and tell the end.” Dortmunder hated stories that were that good, but””

Donald E. Westlake

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A story too good to reveal fully tempts the storyteller to with suspense.

In simple terms: A great story resists a quick ending.

Key Takeaway

Preserve intrigue by delaying resolution.

Themes

storytelling suspense craftsmanship

Mood

curious anticipatory

Type

literary inspirational

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • screenwriting
  • marketing pitches
  • teaching literature

Key Concepts

narrative tension reader engagement

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it better to reveal the ending?
  • How does suspense affect audience satisfaction?
A Different Perspective

Too much delay can frustrate audiences.

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