Being Quote by David Shields
“What I'm definitely against is the plodding, paint-by-numbers 19th-century-style novel that's still being written today. I just don't understand why you'd read or write that in 2011.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Book of Other Days, David Shields, 2011
The quote criticizes formulaic, outdated storytelling that persists despite modern expectations, urging originality.
In simple terms: Reject stale, formulaic novels.
Key Takeaway
Seek fresh, innovative narratives.
Themes
literature
creativity
modernism
Mood
critical
contemplative
Type
analytical
thought‑provoking
When to use this quote
- book clubs
- creative writing workshops
- publishing decisions
- reading recommendations
Key Concepts
postmodernism
authenticity
cultural critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How can writers balance tradition and innovation?
- What makes a story feel timeless versus dated?
A Different Perspective
Not all traditional styles are inherently bad; some readers value classic structures.
