Another reason Hawthorne set his story in the past (in…
““Another reason Hawthorne set his story in the past (in lies) was 'cause he couldn't say directly all the wild things he wanted to say. He was living in a society to which ideas and writing still mattered. In 'The Custom House', the introduction to The Scarlet Letter, Hawthorne makes sure he tells us the story of The Scarlet Letter occurred long ago and has nothing to do with anyone who's now living. After all, Hawthorne had to protect himself so he could keep writing. Right now I can speak as directly as I want 'cause no one gives a shit about writing and ideas, all anyone cares about is money. Even if one person in Boise, Idaho, gave half-a-shit, the only book Mr Idaho can get his hands on is a book the publishers, or rather the advertisers ('cause all businessmen are now advertisers) have decided will net half-a-million in movie and/or TV rights. A book that can be advertised. Define culture that way.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Hawthorne used historical settings to veil controversial ideas; today creators hide behind marketability, sacrificing depth for profit.
In simple terms: Writers conceal truth to survive; profit drives culture now.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize authenticity over market trends.
Themes
art
culture
commercialism
censorship
authenticity
Mood
critical
reflective
skeptical
Type
analytical
commentary
When to use this quote
- publishing decisions
- advertising strategies
- creative writing
- media production
- literary analysis
Key Concepts
historical allegory
media economics
self‑censorship
Questions to Reflect On
- How does profit influence the stories we tell?
- Can art remain truthful in a commercial world?
A Different Perspective
Market pressures can stifle genuine expression and limit diverse voices.