Books Quote by Ottessa Moshfegh
“I'm asking the reader to suspend reality with me and entertain the idea that the person writing is not me. In order to do that well, I think, one needs to point out the artifice of the narrative. Somehow if the narrator is self-aware then it's almost more humanizing and more relatable.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: My Year of Rest and Relaxation, 2018
Narrative self‑awareness highlights its constructed nature, making it more relatable and human.
In simple terms: Self‑aware storytelling feels more human.
Key Takeaway
Embrace narrative artifice to connect with readers.
Themes
fiction
self‑awareness
narrative
authorship
Mood
introspective
analytical
Type
literary
experimental
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- literary analysis
- creative exercises
- author talks
Key Concepts
postmodernism
metafiction
Questions to Reflect On
- How does knowing a story is constructed affect your immersion?
- Do you prefer transparent or seamless narratives?
A Different Perspective
Some readers may find self‑referential style distracting.
![“What's inspiring me the most [is] injustice. My own growth as a member of the human race, in terms of the veils being lifted, seeing more of the beauty and also the horror. A sense of my own purpose in this life. Love...” quote by Ottessa Moshfegh](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/58d/ottessa-moshfegh-8200_growth_what-s-inspiring-me-the-most-is-injustic_380747.jpg)
