Literature Quote by Virginia Woolf
“This is not writing at all. Indeed, I could say that Shakespeare surpasses literature altogether, if I knew what I meant.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Death of the Author, 1925
The statement dismisses the act of writing as trivial, paradoxically elevating Shakespeare as the ultimate benchmark, exposing a contradictory stance.
In simple terms: Writing is dismissed, yet Shakespeare is praised.
Key Takeaway
Question what defines true literary value.
Themes
literature
critique
paradox
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- literary criticism
- academic study
Key Concepts
authorial intent
canonical standards
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a work surpass literature?
- Is any single author the ultimate standard?
A Different Perspective
It overlooks the diversity of literary forms beyond Shakespeare.
![“He [an earnest young reporter] seemed to share the view of many intelligent, well-educated, well-meaning people that, while adult literature may aim to be art, the object of children's books is to whip the little rascals into shape.” quote by Katherine Paterson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2cf/katherine-paterson-2365_adults_he-an-earnest-young-reporter-seemed-to-s_6101.jpg)
