Persons attempting to find a motive in this narrative will be prosecuted; persons attempting to find a moral in it will be banished; persons attempting to find a plot in it will be shot. BY ORDER OF THE AUTHOR.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author warns readers not to search for hidden meanings, morals, or plots in the story.
- In plain terms
- Do not try to find deep lessons or a plot in this book.
- What can you take from it?
- Not every story needs a hidden meaning.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is meaning created by the reader or author?
- Do warnings increase or decrease interest?
Another view
Readers often find meaning regardless of warnings.
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