Plots are interesting, characters are fascinating, scenery…
““Plots are interesting, characters are fascinating, scenery can be totally enveloping,” Morrison says, “but the real art is the deep structure, the way that information is revealed and withheld so that the reader gets to find out things appropriately, or in a time frame that makes it an intimate experience.””
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 emphasizes that the true craft lies in how a story’s information is paced, revealing and withholding details to create intimacy with the reader.
In simple terms: Storytelling is about pacing information for intimacy.
Key Takeaway
Control the flow of information for deeper reader connection.
Themes
narrative technique
structure
intimacy
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
educational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenwriting
- teaching creative writing
- editing
Key Concepts
information pacing
reader engagement
story architecture
Questions to Reflect On
- How does pacing affect emotional impact?
- When should you with information?
A Different Perspective
The approach may limit surprise if over‑controlled.