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Events Quote by Margaret Atwood

“A non-event ... is better to write about than an event, because with a non-event you can make up the meaning yourself, it means whatever you say it means.” quote by Margaret Atwood
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“A non-event ... is better to write about than an event, because with a non-event you can make up the meaning yourself, it means whatever you say it means.”

Margaret Atwood

About This Quote

Source Essay: On Narrative, 2010

Non‑events allow writers to assign meaning, offering creative freedom.

In simple terms: Write about nothing and give it meaning.

Key Takeaway

Use emptiness to shape story.

Themes

writing creativity meaning

Mood

thoughtful creative

Type

experimental literary

When to use this quote

  • fiction
  • experimental literature
  • storytelling workshops

Key Concepts

narrative construction authorial control interpretation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you make a non‑event compelling?
  • What limits does this approach have?
A Different Perspective

Risk of vague storytelling.

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