Bernard shaw Quote by Stacy Aumonier
“Unless you are a Bernard Shaw you find a preface a most embarrassing business.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Literary criticism, 1910
Prefaces can feel pretentious unless you’re a recognized playwright like Bernard Shaw.
In simple terms: Prefaces seem pretentious without fame.
Key Takeaway
Write introductions modestly.
Themes
literary criticism
humor
self‑awareness
Mood
witty
critical
Type
satirical
observational
When to use this quote
- publishing a novel
- writing a foreword
- academic essays
Key Concepts
authorial voice
public perception
literary tradition
Questions to Reflect On
- Should you omit a preface to avoid embarrassment?
- How can you make a preface engaging for all readers?
A Different Perspective
Not all readers share the same expectations of prefaces.
