Appeals Quote by F. Scott Fitzgerald
“The purpose of a work of fiction is to appeal to the lingering after-effects in the reader's mind as differing from, say, the purpose of oratory or philosophy which respectively leave people in a fighting or thoughtful mood.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Crack-Up, 1936
Fiction aims to linger in readers’ thoughts, unlike oratory that incites action or philosophy that provokes contemplation.
In simple terms: Stories stay in mind, speeches spur action, philosophy sparks thought.
Key Takeaway
Craft narratives that resonate beyond the page.
Themes
literature
psychology
communication
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
analytical
Type
literary
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- public speaking
- teaching philosophy
- marketing
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
narrative impact
emotional resonance
Questions to Reflect On
- How does a story’s after‑image shape your worldview?
- What emotions linger after a speech?
A Different Perspective
Readers may interpret lingering effects differently, reducing intended impact.
