On one plane, the very great writers and the popular romancers of the lower order always meet. They use all of themselves, helplessly, unselectively. They are above the primness and good taste of declining to give themselves away.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Great writers and popular romancers share a common trait of using themselves wholly without selective restraint. They prioritize raw expression over polite refinement or good taste.
- In plain terms
- Both great and popular writers pour everything into their work without holding back.
- What can you take from it?
- Authentic art often requires dropping the guard of conventional taste.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does good taste hinder expression?
- Is unrestrained work always better?
Another view
Not all great writers lack selectivity or self-curation.
More from V. S Pritchett
One recalls how much the creative impulse of the best-sellers depends upon self-pity. It is an emotion of great dramatic potential.
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