Skip to content

Able Quote by Julian Barnes

“Writers of either gender ought to be able to do the opposite sex-that's one basic test of competence, after all.” quote by Julian Barnes
Download Open image
“Writers of either gender ought to be able to do the opposite sex-that's one basic test of competence, after all.”

Julian Barnes

About This Quote

Source Essay, 2005

Writers should be able to write as the opposite sex, testing competence beyond gender.

In simple terms: Writers must write as the opposite gender to prove skill.

Key Takeaway

Challenge gender norms in writing.

Themes

gender writing competence creativity identity

Mood

critical thoughtful inquisitive

Type

literary gender

When to use this quote

  • creative writing
  • gender perspective
  • literary workshops

Key Concepts

literary criticism gender studies

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does gender affect narrative voice?
  • Can empathy replace lived experience?
A Different Perspective

May overlook lived experience differences.

3.0 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Julian Barnes

Explore all 454 Julian Barnes quotes

More Able quotes

Browse all 17,257 Able quotes