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About this quote

What does it mean?
He suggests 'recluse' is a journalist’s code for someone who avoids talking to reporters.
In plain terms
He thinks 'recluse' is just a label for anti‑media people.
What can you take from it?
Media terminology can mask intent.

Where it applies

  • interviews
  • public relations

Putting it to work

  • question media labels
  • clarify intent

Questions to consider

  • Why do journalists use euphemisms?
  • How does labeling affect public perception?

Another view

The term may also reflect genuine withdrawal, not just a media construct.

More from Thomas Pynchon

  1. Let me be unambiguous. I prefer not to be photographed.

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  2. I did not write those letters. This has been a hoax that I've had nothing to do with. I'm sorry it's gone on as long as it has.

    Permalink to quote #5
  3. Why should things be easy to understand?

    Permalink to quote #2

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