Bases Quote by Truman Capote
“Since each story presents its own technical problems, obviously one can't generalize about them on a two-times-two-equals-four basis. Finding the right form for your story is simply to realize the most natural way of telling the story. The test of whether or not a writer has defined the natural shape of his story is just this: After reading it, can you imagine it differently, or does it silence your imagination and seem to you absolute and final? As an orange is final. As an orange is something nature has made just right.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Writing Craft, 1970s
A story’s natural form emerges when it engages imagination rather than imposing a rigid structure.
In simple terms: Good stories feel natural, not forced.
Key Takeaway
Seek the story’s innate shape before fixing it.
Themes
creativity
structure
imagination
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
literary
educational
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenwriting
- teaching writing
- editing
Key Concepts
narrative design
organic storytelling
Questions to Reflect On
- What shape does your story naturally take?
- How can you test if a narrative feels forced?
A Different Perspective
Rigid formulas can stifle originality.
