American Quote by Jane Smiley
“I was asked by an editor to consider writing something about an American inventor. I asked him if he knew who invented the computer. He said he didn't. In that case, I told him, I should write a book about John Vincent Atanasoff.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Jane Smiley on writing, 2021
The author highlights the irony of an editor's ignorance about a key inventor, prompting a suggestion to write about John Vincent Atanasoff, the computer's co‑inventor.
In simple terms: An editor didn't know who invented the computer, so the author suggested a book about Atanasoff.
Key Takeaway
Write about overlooked pioneers.
Themes
history
knowledge
humor
Mood
amused
reflective
Type
anecdotal
educational
When to use this quote
- publishing meetings
- lecture series
- educational articles
- podcast episodes
Key Concepts
invention
recognition
authorial agency
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we better educate about lesser‑known innovators?
- What responsibilities do writers have in correcting misconceptions?
A Different Perspective
The anecdote may oversimplify complex invention histories.
