I can't read novels while I'm writing a novel, because somebody's voice creeps in.
T. C. BoyleRead
It's true that none of my characters are admirable. But maybe I'm primarily a satirist, and a satirist needs to hold up what's not admirable.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that a satirist focuses on the flaws of human nature rather than on admirable qualities.
T. C. Boyle expresses the idea that satire serves as a critical tool for reflecting society's shortcomings. In his view, characters that may not possess admirable traits are essential to satirical work, as they are used to reveal deeper truths about human behavior, society, and morality. Satire aims to provoke thought and discussion about what is lacking in humanity, rather than to glorify idealized figures.
Themes
SatireHuman NatureFlawsCharactersSatirist
In practice
Example use cases
In a lecture on literary techniques, one could use this quote to discuss the role of satire in literature.
More from T. C. Boyle
All quotes βThis is the beauty of fiction. We may not like these characters, but we inhabit them.
T. C. BoyleRead
I don't care if the audience is 600 Saul Bellows; I'm going to knock them dead with a comedy routine. I'm out there as a missionary for literature because, if people laugh and enjoy themselves, they might actually do something as bizarre as reading the book.
T. C. BoyleRead
Sometimes if something is entertaining and amusing, people tend to think that it doesn't have the depth of something that's dramatic. I don't think that's true.
T. C. BoyleRead
I think the way to be a writer is to experience things, certainly, and be open to things, but at some point to become dedicated to the craft of writing and to create a stable environment for that writing to occur in.
T. C. BoyleRead
I hope to stay light on my feet, to work in many modes, to seek inspiration always, and avoid the fatal. But, as we all know, it is the price of life to burn out, both metaphorically and literally.
T. C. BoyleRead
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