How anybody can compose a story by word of mouth face to…
““How anybody can compose a story by word of mouth face to face with a bored-looking secretary with a notebook is more than I can imagine. Yet many authors think nothing of saying, 'Ready, Miss Spelvin? Take dictation. Quote no comma Sir Jasper Murgatroyd comma close quotes comma said no better make it hissed Evangeline comma quote I would not marry you if you were the last person on earth period close quotes Quote well comma I'm not so the point does not arise comma close quotes replied Sir Jasper twirling his moustache cynically period And so the long day wore on period End of chapter.' If I had to do that sort of thing I should be feeling all the time that the girl was saying to herself as she took it down, 'Well comma this beats me period How comma with homes for the feebleminded touting for custom on every side comma has a man like this succeeded in remaining at large mark of interrogation.””
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 satirizes the absurdity of dictation and theatrical pretensions, highlighting how writers can overcomplicate simple storytelling.
In simple terms: It mocks overly formal dictation and theatrical drama.
Key Takeaway
Embrace straightforward storytelling.
Themes
satire
writing
theatre
absurdity
Mood
witty
ironic
Type
satirical
humorous
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- script reading
- stage rehearsals
- creative brainstorming
Key Concepts
narrative artifice
performance
authorial voice
Questions to Reflect On
- How does formality affect narrative clarity?
- When does dramatization hinder communication?
A Different Perspective
May lose authenticity when over‑styled.