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About this quote

What does it mean?
Myth marks both the origin and the ultimate limit of literature.
In plain terms
Stories begin with myths and often return to them at the end.
What can you take from it?
Recognize myth as a recurring frame in storytelling.

Where it applies

  • reading stories
  • writing fiction
  • teaching literature

Putting it to work

  • using mythic themes
  • studying folklore

Questions to consider

  • Where does story begin?
  • Why do we return to myths?

Another view

Not all literature relies on myth.

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