About Quote by Per Petterson
“There is always this quarrel about what is preferable: the straight, naturalistic, epic storytelling or the modernistic, disjointed, slightly hermetic one. To me it does not matter, as long as it's good. I like both kinds. Although the common reader seems to prefer the first, which is to be expected, and who would blame her?”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Literary Discussion, 2020
The author argues that both traditional epic narratives and modern fragmented styles have value, and personal preference is secondary to quality.
In simple terms: Both classic and modern storytelling are worthwhile if well done.
Judge works by quality, not style.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- book clubs
- creative writing
- critical analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you assess a story's quality beyond its form?
- Can you enjoy a work that challenges your usual preferences?
Preference for one style can limit appreciation of diverse works.