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The wisdom of literature is quite antithetical to having…

“The wisdom of literature is quite antithetical to having opinions. 'Nothing is my last word about anything,' said Henry James. Furnishing opinions, even correct opinions - whenever asked - cheapens what novelists and poets do best, which is to sponsor reflectiveness, to pursue complexity…” quote by Susan Sontag
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“The wisdom of literature is quite antithetical to having opinions. 'Nothing is my last word about anything,' said Henry James. Furnishing opinions, even correct opinions - whenever asked - cheapens what novelists and poets do best, which is to sponsor reflectiveness, to pursue complexity. Information will never replace illumination.”

Susan Sontag

About This Quote

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

Literature fosters reflection; opinions cheapen artistic depth.

In simple terms: Literature teaches deeper thinking.

Key Takeaway

Value reflection over opinion.

Themes

literature critical thinking art

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical academic

When to use this quote

  • reading
  • writing
  • academic study

Key Concepts

aesthetics philosophy of art

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does literature shape your worldview?
  • When is expressing an opinion appropriate?
A Different Perspective

Opinion can be useful in discourse.

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