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Action Quote by Neil Gaiman

“Everything has to be intrinsic plot-wise in the same way, to use the Linda Williams analogy but to move it on a bit, as musicals - in old musicals, like in an old Cole Porter musical, you get the action, then they do a song, which reflects a moment - everything stops while that is being sung - and…” quote by Neil Gaiman
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“Everything has to be intrinsic plot-wise in the same way, to use the Linda Williams analogy but to move it on a bit, as musicals - in old musicals, like in an old Cole Porter musical, you get the action, then they do a song, which reflects a moment - everything stops while that is being sung - and then you restart. These days in most musicals, the plot keeps moving through the song. I think it would be nice if someone constructed some pornography where the sex continues to propel you through the story.”

Neil Gaiman

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Art of Musical Storytelling, Neil Gaiman, 2015

Traditional musical numbers pause narrative, while modern songs integrate plot, suggesting erotic scenes could similarly drive story forward.

In simple terms: Songs can either pause or advance plot; erotic scenes could do the same.

Key Takeaway

Use music or erotic content to propel narrative.

Themes

storytelling musicals genre theory

Mood

provocative analytical

Type

theoretical critical

When to use this quote

  • theatre production
  • screenwriting
  • songwriting
  • adult film creation

Key Concepts

narrative integration diegesis sexuality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can explicit content enhance rather than hinder narrative flow?
  • What ethical boundaries arise when sex drives plot?
A Different Perspective

May distract or alienate audiences uncomfortable with explicit content.

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