“Good literature substitutes for experience which we have not ourselves lived
through.” – Alexander Solzhenitsyn
I believe that this is not a suitable quote because there is not a substitute for first hand experience. I can understand that literature portrays experiences but it does not make you any better at an activity especially one that requires skill.
example: You can read all about archery but you will never have any skill if you don't practice
this quote ties into my book in the way I will not experience any of what the character go through, but unlike the quote,it does not mean that I am experiencing what the characters are going through while reading.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
That's an interesting point, but what if the book is about something you'll never do and the book would be the best substitute?
ReplyDeleteYou are still not experienceing it by reading a book
ReplyDeleteI am surprised you didn't use instruments as an example, because they also prove your point very well. I could read books all day about how to play the Horn in F, but I will need a lot of practice if I want to play it with any decency.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I think you are missing the point of the quote. I think Mr. Solzhenitsyn was talking about the quality of imagery in a good book. Good literature can take you to the place described in a way. There may be a scene in The Hobbit that describes a certain location in such great detail that it is almost like you experienced that place yourself.
Besides, do you consider a "how to" book on archery good literature? I would not consider it good literature, but that's just my opinion. Then again, isn't that what the post is all about? Opinions?