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Paradox is beloved of novelists. The despised savior, the…

“Paradox is beloved of novelists. The despised savior, the humane whore, the selfish man suddenly munificent, the wise fool, and the cowardly hero. Most writers spend their lives writing about unexpected malice in the supposedly virtuous, and unexpected virtue in the supposedly sinful.” quote by Thomas Keneally
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““Paradox is beloved of novelists. The despised savior, the humane whore, the selfish man suddenly munificent, the wise fool, and the cowardly hero. Most writers spend their lives writing about unexpected malice in the supposedly virtuous, and unexpected virtue in the supposedly sinful. ””

Thomas Keneally

About This Quote

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

Writers love paradoxes, portraying characters who embody contradictory traits, revealing complexity in human nature.

In simple terms: Paradoxes show human complexity.

Key Takeaway

Embrace contradictions in storytelling.

Themes

paradox character complexity morality

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • literary analysis
  • character development
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

dual nature ethical ambiguity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do contradictions enrich a character?
  • When might they hinder clarity?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on paradox can confuse readers.

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