Begin Quote by Elizabeth Hardwick
“Now, my novel begins. No, now I begin my novel—and yet I cannot decide whether to call myself I or she.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The End of the Novel, 1979
The writer faces identity ambiguity, questioning gendered pronouns as they start their story.
In simple terms: The author is unsure whether to use “I” or “she”.
Key Takeaway
Clarify narrative voice early to guide storytelling.
Themes
identity
gender
authorship
creative process
Mood
introspective
literary
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- personal memoir
- fiction drafting
- gender studies
Key Concepts
narrative voice
self‑identity
literary theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does gender influence narrative perspective?
- What voice best serves your story?
A Different Perspective
Pronoun choice may affect reader perception and marketability.
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