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I prefer reading novels. Short stories are too much like…

“I prefer reading novels. Short stories are too much like daggers. And now that I'm done with my collection I'm more interested in different forms of writing and other kinds of narrative art. I'm working on a screenplay. But when I was working on Eileen, I definitely felt like I was taking a piss…” quote by Ottessa Moshfegh
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“I prefer reading novels. Short stories are too much like daggers. And now that I'm done with my collection I'm more interested in different forms of writing and other kinds of narrative art. I'm working on a screenplay. But when I was working on Eileen, I definitely felt like I was taking a piss. Like, here I am, typing on my computer, writing the "novel." It wasn't that it was insincere, but there was a kind of farcical feeling I had when I was writing.”

Ottessa Moshfegh

About This Quote

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

Writing in different forms can feel forced when the author is detached, leading to a sense of absurdity and self‑consciousness.

In simple terms: Switching genres can feel fake and ridiculous.

Key Takeaway

Embrace authenticity and let the form match the voice.

Themes

creativity genre authenticity writing process

Mood

reflective introspective

Type

creative philosophical

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • screenplay development
  • creative workshops

Key Concepts

self‑consciousness artistic tension genre fluidity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your choice of genre?
  • How do you stay authentic across forms?
A Different Perspective

Risk of losing genuine voice when chasing novelty.

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