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Comic Quote by Donald Barthelme

“It is difficult to keep the public interested. The public demands new wonders piled on new wonders. Often we don't know where our next marvel is coming from. The supply of strange ideas is not endless.” quote by Donald Barthelme
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“It is difficult to keep the public interested. The public demands new wonders piled on new wonders. Often we don't know where our next marvel is coming from. The supply of strange ideas is not endless.”

Donald Barthelme

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The New Yorker", 1975

Public appetite for novelty drives endless demand for innovation, but creative resources are finite.

In simple terms: People crave constant new wonders, yet ideas are limited.

Key Takeaway

Balance novelty with sustainable creativity.

Themes

innovation public expectation creativity

Mood

critical reflective

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • product design
  • media content
  • entertainment
  • technology development

Key Concepts

finite resources cultural demand

Questions to Reflect On

  • What sustainable ways can creators meet public demand?
  • How can audiences appreciate depth over novelty?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on novelty can lead to burnout and shallow work.

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