Accomplishment Quote by Michelle Huneven
“Its subtlest, most appealing accomplishment may be in how other characters respond to Gregorius' precipitous swerve onto the spiritual path. (...) That said, Night Train to Lisbon is a very long, ambitious book that's feverishly overwritten. (...) Think of W.G. Sebald recast for the mass market: stripped of nuance, cooked at high temperature and pounded home, clause after clause. Some of the clumsiness derives from Barbara Harshav's inelegant translation -- we're often aware of her struggle -- but she can't be blamed for the pervasive bloat.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Night Train to Lisbon by Pascal Mercier, 2004
The novel aims for profound impact through character reactions, but its execution is overly verbose and heavy, losing subtlety.
In simple terms: The book tries to be deep but feels bloated and clumsy.
Key Takeaway
Seek concise expression over excess.
Themes
literature
translation
style
overextension
character
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
analytical
literary
When to use this quote
- book club discussions
- creative writing workshops
- literary criticism
- translation studies
Key Concepts
narrative depth
translation challenges
authorial intent
Questions to Reflect On
- How does translation affect a work’s tone?
- Can brevity convey the same depth?
A Different Perspective
The dense prose may alienate readers seeking clarity.
