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Books Quote by Elizabeth Hardwick

“I was immensely moved by this novel when I read it recently and yet I cannot think of anything to say about it except that it is wonderful. The people are not characters, there is no plot in the usual sense. What can you bring to bear: verisimilitude — to what? You can merely say over and over…” quote by Elizabeth Hardwick
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““I was immensely moved by this novel when I read it recently and yet I cannot think of anything to say about it except that it is wonderful. The people are not characters, there is no plot in the usual sense. What can you bring to bear: verisimilitude — to what? You can merely say over and over that it is very good, very beautiful, that when you were reading it you were happy.””

Elizabeth Hardwick

About This Quote

The reviewer struggles to articulate the novel's impact, noting its beauty despite lacking conventional plot or character depth.

In simple terms: The book feels beautiful but defies typical analysis.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate art beyond standard criteria.

Themes

literature subjectivity beauty

Mood

contemplative critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • reading
  • creative writing
  • book clubs
  • academic study

Key Concepts

aesthetic experience interpretive challenge

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes a work 'wonderful' to you?
  • How do you evaluate art without plot?
A Different Perspective

Such vague praise may hinder deeper discussion.

3.7 out of 5 (5 ratings)

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