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But, you say, there is very little conversation in this…

“But, you say, there is very little conversation in this book. Why isn't there more dialoge? What we want in a book by this citizen is people talking; that is all he knows how to do and now he doesn't do it. The fellow is no philosopher, no savant, an incompetent zoologist, he drinks too much and…” quote by Hemingway, Ernest
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““But, you say, there is very little conversation in this book. Why isn't there more dialoge? What we want in a book by this citizen is people talking; that is all he knows how to do and now he doesn't do it. The fellow is no philosopher, no savant, an incompetent zoologist, he drinks too much and cannot punctuate readily and now he has stopped writing dialogue. Some one ought to put a stop to him. He is bull crazy.””

Hemingway, Ernest

About This Quote

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

The author criticizes a writer for lacking dialogue and depth, labeling him incompetent and irrational.

In simple terms: A writer’s lack of dialogue makes the work dull and foolish.

Key Takeaway

Seek substance over empty chatter.

Themes

literary criticism dialogue authorial skill competence irrationality

Mood

critical skeptical

Type

analytical evaluative

When to use this quote

  • book reviews
  • creative writing workshops
  • editorial feedback
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

Narrative technique authorial intent literary standards

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does meaningful dialogue add to a story?
  • How can a writer improve without losing voice?
A Different Perspective

The critique may overlook the writer’s stylistic choices or cultural context.

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