Action Quote by P. G. Wodehouse
“I think the success of every novel - if it's a novel of action - depends on the high spots. The thing to do is to say to yourself, 'Which are my big scenes?' and then get every drop of juice out of them. The principle I always go on in writing a novel is to think of the characters in terms of actors in a play. I say to myself, if a big name were playing this part, and if he found that after a strong first act he had practically nothing to do in the second act, he would walk out. Now, then, can I twist the story so as to give him plenty to do all the way through?”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Luck of the Bodkins, 1935
A novel's impact hinges on its most dramatic moments; writers must identify and fully develop these high points.
In simple terms: Focus on big scenes and keep them engaging throughout.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize and expand pivotal scenes.
Themes
writing
storytelling
drama
Mood
analytical
practical
Type
educational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- novel drafting
- screenwriting
- creative workshops
- editing sessions
Key Concepts
plot structure
character agency
Questions to Reflect On
- Which scenes in your work feel under‑developed?
- How can you balance tension and calm?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on peaks can neglect character depth.
![“[T]he success of every novel -- if it's a novel of action -- depends on the high spots. The thing to do is to say to yourself, "What are my big scenes?" and then get every drop of juice out of them." (Interview, The Paris Review , Issue 64, Winter 1975)” quote by P.G. Wodehouse](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5b8/p-g-wodehouse-723_books_t-he-success-of-every-novel-if-it-s-a-no_1197285.jpg)
![“Sophie [Kinsella]'s writing just captivated me. We bought this eight years ago, before it became an international success and was only one book. Now there's five. So, we were very fortunate to latch onto a character who has since become an international success both as a novel and hopefully now as…” quote by Jerry Bruckheimer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c06/jerry-bruckheimer-10690_book_sophie-kinsella-s-writing-just-captivate_477226.jpg)
