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Being honest Quote by Dan Simmons

“Wilkie Collins was a rival and competitor of Dickens. His novel Moonstone sold more copies at the time than Dickens' last two books. But that meant nothing in the long run. Right now, to be honest, Wilkie Collins is what he deserved to be back then: a footnote, an almost lost memory. And he knew…” quote by Dan Simmons
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“Wilkie Collins was a rival and competitor of Dickens. His novel Moonstone sold more copies at the time than Dickens' last two books. But that meant nothing in the long run. Right now, to be honest, Wilkie Collins is what he deserved to be back then: a footnote, an almost lost memory. And he knew he would become that.”

Dan Simmons

About This Quote

Wilkie Collins, once popular, has been largely forgotten, illustrating how literary fame can fade over time.

In simple terms: Famous authors can become footnotes.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the fleeting nature of fame.

Themes

literature legacy celebrity history

Mood

contemplative nostalgic

Type

reflective observational

When to use this quote

  • book clubs
  • literary criticism
  • publishing
  • education

Key Concepts

cultural memory canon formation

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do some writers endure while others fade?
  • What factors shape the literary canon?
A Different Perspective

The claim may ignore Collins' influence on mystery genre.

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