Banality Quote by Robert W. Chambers
““It is well known how the book spread like an infectious disease, from city to city, from continent to continent, barred out here, confiscated there, denounced by press and pulpit, censured even by the most advanced of literary anarchists. No definite principles had been violated in those wicked pages, no doctrine promulgated, no convictions outraged. It could not be judged by any known standard, yet, although it was acknowledged that the supreme note of art had been struck in "The King in Yellow," all felt that human nature could not bear the strain nor thrive on words in which the essence of purest poison lurked. The very banality and innocence of the first act only allowed the blow to fall afterwards with more awful effect.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The King in Yellow, Robert W. Chambers, 1895
The book spreads like a virus, feared for its unsettling content despite lacking explicit doctrine, suggesting art can be both captivating and dangerous.
In simple terms: A controversial work spreads widely, unsettling readers.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the power of ideas to provoke strong reactions.
Themes
censorship
art
fear
influence
Mood
uneasy
reflective
Type
cautionary
analytical
When to use this quote
- book clubs
- academic discussions
- media analysis
- public debates
Key Concepts
literary horror
cultural panic
Questions to Reflect On
- How does fear shape our reception of art?
- Can controversial works be appreciated responsibly?
A Different Perspective
The impact may be overstated; some readers find value without harm.
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