Attempting Quote by Mark Twain
““NOTICE Persons attempting to find a motive in this narrative will be prosecuted; persons attempting to find a moral in it will be banished; persons attempting to find a plot in it will be shot. BY ORDER OF THE AUTHOR Per G.G.,Chief of Ordnance””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, 1884
The author mocks readers who over‑analyze, warning that seeking hidden motives, morals, or plots can be futile and dangerous.
In simple terms: Over‑analysis is discouraged.
Key Takeaway
Accept the story at face value.
Themes
humor
satire
literary criticism
Mood
playful
ironic
Type
satirical
literary
When to use this quote
- reading literature
- academic discussion
- critical analysis
Key Concepts
metafiction
authorial intent
Questions to Reflect On
- What does this say about the limits of interpretation?
- When is it appropriate to look for deeper meaning?
A Different Perspective
Some narratives intentionally resist simple moralizing.
