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Aesthetic Quote by Zadie Smith

“For example, you have these grotesque, hilarious, profane ghosts in the book [Lincoln in the Bardo]. Even the concept of talking ghosts is, from an aesthetic point of view, grotesque. But you seem compelled by that risk in order to get to the other end of the equation.” quote by Zadie Smith
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“For example, you have these grotesque, hilarious, profane ghosts in the book [Lincoln in the Bardo]. Even the concept of talking ghosts is, from an aesthetic point of view, grotesque. But you seem compelled by that risk in order to get to the other end of the equation.”

Zadie Smith

About This Quote

Source Novel: Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders, 2017

The passage notes that grotesque, profane ghosts are unsettling yet compelling, pushing readers toward deeper understanding.

In simple terms: Disturbing elements can be alluring for insight.

Key Takeaway

Embrace discomfort to discover hidden truths.

Themes

literature creativity risk the supernatural

Mood

curious thoughtful

Type

analytical reflective

When to use this quote

  • reading experimental fiction
  • writing workshops
  • creative brainstorming

Key Concepts

aesthetic tension narrative risk

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we seek out unsettling art?
  • How does discomfort fuel creativity?
A Different Perspective

Risk may alienate some audiences.

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