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Book Quote by Antonin Artaud

“I would like to write a Book which would drive men mad, which would be like an open door leading them where they would never have consented to go, in short, a door that opens onto reality.” quote by Antonin Artaud
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“I would like to write a Book which would drive men mad, which would be like an open door leading them where they would never have consented to go, in short, a door that opens onto reality.”

Antonin Artaud

About This Quote

Source Play: The Theatre and Its Double, 1938

The writer seeks to shatter readers' complacency, opening a raw, unsettling truth that forces confrontation with reality.

In simple terms: A book should shock readers into confronting reality.

Key Takeaway

Write to provoke and reveal hidden truths.

Themes

provocation reality artistic rebellion

Mood

challenging intense

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • literary criticism
  • creative writing
  • therapy sessions

Key Concepts

existentialism psychoanalysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truths are you avoiding?
  • How far should art push boundaries?
A Different Perspective

Such shock can alienate or traumatize audiences.

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