Amount Quote by John Ashbery
“I would like to please the reader, and I think that surprise has to be an element of this, and that may necessitate a certain amount of teasing. To shock the reader is something else again. That has to be handled with great care if you're not going to alienate and hurt him, and I'm firmly against that, just as I disapprove of people who dress with that in mind - dye their hair blue and stick safety pins through their noses and so on.”
About This Quote
The author balances surprise and shock, emphasizing careful teasing to avoid alienating readers, while criticizing superficial self‑expression.
In simple terms: Balance surprise with sensitivity.
Key Takeaway
Surprise readers thoughtfully, avoid gratuitous shock.
Themes
literature
surprise
reader engagement
ethics
self‑expression
Mood
creative
cautious
Type
analytical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- novels
- short stories
- creative writing workshops
- editorial reviews
Key Concepts
narrative technique
authorial intent
cultural critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How can writers gauge the line between teasing and alienation?
- What role does authenticity play in surprising readers?
A Different Perspective
Over‑teasing can damage trust and diminish impact.
