Readers tend to tolerate such "accidents"... when they get…
““Readers tend to tolerate such "accidents"... when they get the characters into trouble but they're less accepting when the author uses them to rescue people. The "deus ex machina"...in one stroke it renders meaningless all the efforts of the cast.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author warns that using convenient plot devices (deus ex machina) to rescue characters undermines narrative effort and credibility.
In simple terms: Convenient rescues cheapen the story.
Avoid easy fixes; respect narrative integrity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- novel drafting
- screenwriting
- editing drafts
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When is a deus ex machina justified?
- How can you resolve conflict organically?
Such devices can sometimes be necessary.