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I want work that, possessing as thin a membrane as possible between life and art, foregrounds the question of how the writer solves being alive.
David Shields
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote expresses the desire for art that closely reflects the complexities of real life, emphasizing the writer's struggle with existence.

David Shields highlights the intricate relationship between art and life, suggesting that true artistic expression should minimize barriers between the two. The quote reflects a philosophical inquiry into how writers navigate their experiences of being alive, prompting deeper reflections on the nature of creativity and existence.

Themes

ArtLifeWritingExistenceCreativity

In practice

Example use cases

In a panel discussion on contemporary literature, one might quote this to highlight the importance of authenticity in writing.

More from David Shields

I'm interested in non-fiction, but a form of it which is very badly behaved, which doesn't define itself as straight-ahead journalism or memoir. It blurs boundaries, plays fast and loose with the truth - not to be silly, whimsical or lazy, but to get greater purchase on what it feels like to be alive.
David ShieldsRead

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