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Books Quote by David Means

“Novels often thin themselves out to a watery hue - some even start that way - and at times seem to only ride along the surface of things, giving us what we already know, reporting the news that is just news.” quote by David Means
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“Novels often thin themselves out to a watery hue - some even start that way - and at times seem to only ride along the surface of things, giving us what we already know, reporting the news that is just news.”

David Means

About This Quote

Source Interview: The New Yorker, 2015

Novels can become shallow, merely echoing known ideas without depth, reducing literature to surface-level reporting.

In simple terms: Novels may become shallow and repetitive.

Key Takeaway

Seek depth and originality in storytelling.

Themes

literature creativity originality

Mood

reflective critical

Type

literary critical

When to use this quote

  • book reviews
  • creative writing workshops
  • literary criticism
  • author interviews

Key Concepts

surface-level narrative repetition lack of depth

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes a story feel fresh?
  • How do you balance familiarity and novelty?
A Different Perspective

Some readers prefer familiar, comforting narratives.

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