Prose Quote by Herbert Gold
“With short stories, the story-teller must have a story to tell, not merely some sweet prose to take out for a walk”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Art of Short Storytelling, 1975
A storyteller must have a compelling narrative, not just decorative language, to engage readers.
In simple terms: Stories need substance, not just pretty words.
Key Takeaway
Focus on plot over prose.
Themes
storytelling
substance
craft
Mood
analytical
instructive
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- creative writing workshops
- editing sessions
- literary criticism
Key Concepts
narrative
structure
character
purpose
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a story truly engaging?
- How can prose support rather than replace plot?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on style can obscure meaning.
![“[A]lways get to the dialogue as soon as possible. I always feel the thing to go for is speed. Nothing puts the reader off more than a big slab of prose at the start." (Interview, The Paris Review , Issue 64, Winter 1975)” quote by P.G. Wodehouse](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/989/p-g-wodehouse-723_communication_a-lways-get-to-the-dialogue-as-soon-as-p_13316.jpg)
