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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.” quote by Thomas McCormack
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““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.””

Thomas McCormack

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.

Key Takeaway

Avoid easy fixes; respect narrative integrity.

Themes

writing plot integrity storytelling

Mood

critical analytical

Type

Books:1 Deus Ex:1 Ex Machina:1 Characters Trouble:0 Readers Tend:0 Accidents Characters:0 Tolerate Accidents:0 Machina Stroke:0

When to use this quote

  • novel drafting
  • screenwriting
  • editing drafts

Key Concepts

literary criticism creative writing

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is a deus ex machina justified?
  • How can you resolve conflict organically?
A Different Perspective

Such devices can sometimes be necessary.

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