19th century Quote by Joanna Trollope
“My view of an excellent novel was probably set in the golden age of fiction in the 19th century: narrative, character and voice are of equal importance.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Art of the Novel, Joanna Trollope, 2005
An excellent novel balances narrative, character, and voice equally, reflecting the golden age standards of 19th‑century fiction.
In simple terms: Great novels need story, characters, and style in harmony.
Key Takeaway
Strive for balanced storytelling.
Themes
literature
storytelling
character development
voice
balance
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
critical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- creative writing workshops
- book clubs
- literary criticism
- editing processes
Key Concepts
narrative structure
character arcs
authorial voice
Questions to Reflect On
- Can equal emphasis on voice improve contemporary novels?
- How does balance affect reader engagement?
A Different Perspective
Modern readers may prioritize plot over voice.
![“. . . Luddites were those frenzied traditionalists of the early 19th century who toured [England] wrecking new weaving machines on the theory that if they were destroyed . . . old jobs and old ways of life could be preserved . . . At certain times in his life each man is tempted to become a…” quote by James A. Michener](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/182/james-a-michener-1627_19th-century_luddites-were-those-frenzied-traditional_76909.jpg)
