Quote by Mark Twain
The test of any good fiction is that you should care something for the characters; the good to succeed, the bad to fail. The trouble with most fiction is that you want them all to land in hell together, as quickly as possible.
Summary
This quote suggests that the true measure of successful fiction lies in the reader's emotional investment in the characters. A good story entails caring for the fate of the virtuous characters and desiring their success while wanting the downfall of the immoral ones. The quote further criticizes much of popular fiction, arguing that it fails to create compelling characters, thereby leaving the reader indifferent towards their fate and even desiring their swift demise together.
Topics
Writing
By Mark Twain