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Attitude Quote by Suzette Haden Elgin

“This is what happens when the discourse of publishing, defined and driven by spoken and written language, is talked about in exactly the same vocabulary and syntax as any widgetmaking industry. Books are reformulated as 'product' - like screwdrivers or flea-bombs or soap - and the majority of…” quote by Suzette Haden Elgin
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“This is what happens when the discourse of publishing, defined and driven by spoken and written language, is talked about in exactly the same vocabulary and syntax as any widgetmaking industry. Books are reformulated as 'product' - like screwdrivers or flea-bombs or soap - and the majority of writers are perceived as typists with bad attitudes.”

Suzette Haden Elgin

About This Quote

The quote critiques reducing publishing to a commodity, stripping it of artistic nuance.

In simple terms: Treating books like products.

Key Takeaway

Preserve artistic integrity over market terms.

Themes

art commercialization language

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • publishing contracts
  • author negotiations
  • literary festivals
  • educational curricula

Key Concepts

cultural value creative autonomy industry critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can creators balance art and profit?
  • What alternatives exist to commodify literature?
A Different Perspective

Market pressures can stifle creativity.

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