Absolutes Quote by Jonathan Lethem
“I believe that written stories will continue to survive because they answer an essential human need. I think movies might disappear before the novel disappears, because the novel is really one of the only places in the world where two strangers can meet on terms of absolute intimacy.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Paris Review, 2012
Stories endure because they fulfill a deep human need; novels uniquely allow intimate encounters between strangers.
In simple terms: Stories meet a basic need; novels enable intimate stranger connections.
Key Takeaway
Value and protect literary storytelling.
Themes
literature
human nature
intimacy
Mood
thoughtful
nostalgic
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- education
- publishing
- creative writing
Key Concepts
narrative
empathy
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do novels foster intimacy?
- Can other media replace this?
A Different Perspective
Digital media may shift how intimacy is experienced.
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