Adjectives Quote by Angela Carter
“I think the adjective post-modernist really means mannerist. Books about books is fun but frivolous.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Art of Fiction, Angela Carter, 1985
She suggests “post‑modernist” is essentially “mannerist”; books about books are entertaining but lack substance.
In simple terms: Post‑modernism equals style over substance; meta‑books are frivolous.
Key Takeaway
Seek depth over mere style.
Themes
literary criticism
post‑modernism
style vs substance
meta‑fiction
frivolity
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- book reviews
- creative writing workshops
- academic seminars
- personal reading choices
Key Concepts
aesthetic theory
literary theory
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you value style or meaning more?
- Can meta‑fiction be both fun and profound?
A Different Perspective
Some readers enjoy style for its own sake.
