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Over-certified adjectives are the mark of most best-seller writing
Norman Mailer
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Excessive use of overblown descriptors is common in popular writing.

Norman Mailer's quote highlights a tendency in best-selling literature to rely on exaggerated adjectives to draw attention and sell books. This practice can undermine the integrity of writing by prioritizing sensationalism over substance, suggesting that many commercially successful works may be less about genuine artistry and more about catering to commercial demands.

Themes

WritingLiteratureAdjectivesBest-SellersCommercial

In practice

Example use cases

During a writer's workshop, one might use this quote to illustrate the pitfalls of striving for best-seller status over authentic storytelling.

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