Skip to content

Book Quote by William S. Burroughs

“There's a book called Mummy and the people actually seem to have become addicted to mummy dust. And mummy dust was somehow made from people who've died of the most loathsome diseases. It's too bad that [David] Cronenberg didn't see this book, see I only saw it after the film was made. It might…” quote by William S. Burroughs
Download Open image
“There's a book called Mummy and the people actually seem to have become addicted to mummy dust. And mummy dust was somehow made from people who've died of the most loathsome diseases. It's too bad that [David] Cronenberg didn't see this book, see I only saw it after the film was made. It might have been of interest to him.”

William S. Burroughs

About This Quote

Source Interview: Interview with William S. Burroughs, 1975

The quote comments on a fictional book about a harmful substance derived from diseased bodies, noting that a filmmaker like Cronenberg might have found it compelling.

In simple terms: A strange book about dangerous dust is mentioned, and a director could have liked it.

Key Takeaway

Consider how media can inspire or reflect taboo subjects.

Themes

culture media taboo influence fiction

Mood

cautious intrigued critical

Type

observational analytical

When to use this quote

  • film criticism
  • literary analysis
  • creative brainstorming
  • ethical debates

Key Concepts

addiction disease body horror artistic inspiration

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes a disturbing concept appealing to artists?
  • How do we balance curiosity with ethical concerns?
A Different Perspective

The reference assumes familiarity with Cronenberg’s style, which may not resonate with all audiences.

3.3 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by William S. Burroughs

Explore all 484 William S. Burroughs quotes

More Book quotes

Browse all 29,378 Book quotes