Accomplice Quote by David Foster Wallace
““As I see it, even though the cartridge’s end has both characters emoting out of every pore, Accomplice!’s essential project remains abstract and self-reflexive; we end up feeling and thinking not about the characters but about the cartridge itself.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Infinite Jest, 1996
The author notes that the story’s focus shifts from characters to the medium itself, making the narrative about the cartridge rather than the people.
In simple terms: The work becomes self‑referential, emphasizing its own structure.
Key Takeaway
Notice when art reflects on its own form.
Themes
literature
self‑reference
meta‑narrative
artistic critique
structure
Mood
intellectual
analytical
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- creative writing workshops
- film studies
- media analysis
- philosophy of art
Key Concepts
meta‑fiction
self‑reflexivity
narrative focus
Questions to Reflect On
- What does this self‑awareness add to the story?
- Does focusing on the medium diminish character depth?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on form can alienate audiences seeking emotional connection.
