Books Quote by Tama Janowitz
“I don't want my novel to be like Madame Bovary, finely crafted with the life edited out of it. I want my novel to be like a friend telling me a story -- so we go off on thoughts; that's the way it is.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The New York Times Book Review, 1975
A novel should feel like a conversation with a friend, spontaneous and exploratory, rather than a polished, detached narrative.
In simple terms: Novels should be like friendly storytelling.
Key Takeaway
Write with spontaneity and personal voice.
Themes
writing
friendship
creativity
Mood
intimate
inspirational
Type
reflective
creative
When to use this quote
- creative writing workshops
- personal journals
- storytelling sessions
- literary circles
Key Concepts
narrative voice
authenticity
spontaneity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance craft with conversational tone?
- What does a “friend’s story” feel like to you?
A Different Perspective
Over‑editing can strip a story of its livedness.
