Skip to content

But, curiously, though Mr. Norrell was able to work feats…

“But, curiously, though Mr. Norrell was able to work feats of the most breath-taking wonder, he was only able to describe them in his usual dry manner, so that Sir Walter was left with the impression that the spectacle of half a thousand stone figures in York Cathedral all speaking together had…” quote by Susanna Clarke
Download Open image
““But, curiously, though Mr. Norrell was able to work feats of the most breath-taking wonder, he was only able to describe them in his usual dry manner, so that Sir Walter was left with the impression that the spectacle of half a thousand stone figures in York Cathedral all speaking together had been rather a dull affair and that he had been fortunate in being elsewhere at the time.””

Susanna Clarke

About This Quote

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

Extraordinary achievements can be presented blandly, causing them to be undervalued.

In simple terms: Even great feats can seem dull if poorly described.

Key Takeaway

Communicate wonder with vivid detail.

Themes

communication perception literature

Mood

creative reflective

Type

literary inspirational

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • public speaking
  • marketing
  • education

Key Concepts

narrative technique storytelling

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you make your achievements sound compelling?
  • What storytelling methods enhance audience engagement?
A Different Perspective

A lack of expressive language can diminish impact.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Susanna Clarke

Explore all 228 Susanna Clarke quotes

More Sir Walter quotes

Browse all 11 Sir Walter quotes