Books Quote by Michael Ondaatje
“When I began to write novels, I wanted to keep that element of interaction with the reader that exists in poetry, not just for the reader to be shepherded from A to B to C to D but to participate, and the less you say sometimes, the better it is. You know, it's the way when someone speaks very quietly, you move forward so you can listen more carefully.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New Yorker, 1995
The writer seeks a dialogue with readers, using sparse language to invite deeper listening and participation.
In simple terms: Use less words to engage readers more actively.
Key Takeaway
Write concisely to foster reader involvement.
Themes
writing
reader engagement
minimalism
Mood
introspective
thoughtful
Type
literary
instructional
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- creative workshops
- literary criticism
- teaching writing
Key Concepts
dialogue
participatory narrative
silence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can silence shape meaning?
- What does participation look like in prose?
A Different Perspective
Readers may miss nuance if too terse.
