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About this quote

What does it mean?
Characters outlive their creators, yet authors often embody aspects of all their creations.
In plain terms
Characters are not authors, but authors can be all characters.
What can you take from it?
Authors reflect themselves in characters.

Where it applies

  • writing a book
  • reading fiction
  • analyzing art

Putting it to work

  • write from experience
  • analyze author intent
  • explore self in art

Questions to consider

  • Do you see yourself in your work?
  • How much of an author is in a character?

Another view

Authors may not intend to reflect themselves.

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