Books Quote by Lynne Tillman
“I've always liked elliptical writing, whether it's Kafka or Paula Fox, and I'm often bored by writers who explain too much. I think that becomes journalism. Mostly I don't try to explain to readers who somebody is - I just write about the somebody. I'm thinking through ideas. And I have the sense that, if you're reading this, you have some interest.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Paris Review, 2015
The author prefers indirect, elliptical prose over explicit explanation, seeing the latter as journalistic and dull.
In simple terms: Elliptical writing invites readers to infer meaning rather than being told.
Key Takeaway
Embrace subtlety, trust readers' curiosity.
Themes
literary style
writing technique
reader engagement
Mood
thoughtful
introspective
Type
literary
reflective
When to use this quote
- creative writing workshops
- literary criticism
- reading groups
- teaching creative writing
Key Concepts
elliptical narrative
implicit meaning
authorial voice
Questions to Reflect On
- How does ambiguity affect reader connection?
- When is explicit explanation necessary?
A Different Perspective
Overly vague prose can alienate readers seeking clarity.
![“[Reality] isn't simply the so-called world that you're in. Your reality is a much larger one that takes in all matter of identification and desires and hopes.” quote by Lynne Tillman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/580/lynne-tillman-5609_desire_reality-isn-t-simply-the-so-called-world_223218.jpg)
