Skip to content

Book Quote by Anthony Burgess

“A man can write one book that can be great, but this doesn't make him a great writer-just the writer of a great book. . . I think a writer has to extend very widely, as well as plunge very deep, to be a great novelist.” quote by Anthony Burgess
Download Open image
“A man can write one book that can be great, but this doesn't make him a great writer-just the writer of a great book. . . I think a writer has to extend very widely, as well as plunge very deep, to be a great novelist.”

Anthony Burgess

About This Quote

Source Interview: Literary criticism

A great novelist must both produce a great book and demonstrate breadth and depth across many works.

In simple terms: Great writers need breadth and depth.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate both prolific output and deep exploration.

Themes

writing excellence growth

Mood

instructive analytical

Type

educational inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career development
  • reading habits
  • creative workshops

Key Concepts

novel craft literary scope

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you expand your literary range?
  • What areas of writing do you find most challenging?
A Different Perspective

Focusing solely on one success can stall growth.

3.8 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Anthony Burgess

Explore all 261 Anthony Burgess quotes

More Book quotes

Browse all 29,381 Book quotes