Of course I know that the twins are only words on a page…
“Of course I know that the twins are only words on a page, and I'm certainly not the sort of writer who talks to his characters or harbours any illusions about the creative process. But at the same time, I think it's juvenile and arrogant when literary writers compulsively remind their readers that the characters aren't real. People know that already. The challenge is to make an intelligent reader suspend disbelief, to seduce them into the reality of a narrative.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Writers often remind readers that characters are fictional, which can feel patronizing; instead, they should trust readers to engage with the story.
In simple terms: Avoid patronizing readers about fiction.
Key Takeaway
Trust readers to suspend disbelief.
Themes
literature
authorial voice
reader engagement
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- book clubs
- creative writing classes
- literary criticism
Key Concepts
metafiction
narrative immersion
Questions to Reflect On
- Do reminders enhance or hinder immersion?
- When is meta‑commentary appropriate?
A Different Perspective
Some readers enjoy explicit reminders of fictionality.