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Books Quote by Glenway Wescott

“There must always be some pretentiousness about literature, or else no one would take its pains or endure its disappointments.” quote by Glenway Wescott
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“There must always be some pretentiousness about literature, or else no one would take its pains or endure its disappointments.”

Glenway Wescott

About This Quote

Source Book: The Language of Love by Glenway Wescott, 1935

Literature requires a degree of pretentiousness to be taken seriously and to endure its challenges.

In simple terms: Pretentiousness makes literature meaningful.

Key Takeaway

Embrace complexity in reading and writing.

Themes

literature pretentiousness artistic value

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • book clubs
  • creative writing workshops
  • academic courses

Key Concepts

aesthetics critical theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What balance between pretentiousness and accessibility works for you?
  • How does pretentiousness affect your engagement with a text?
A Different Perspective

Excessive pretentiousness can alienate readers.

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