Quote by John Updike
I think taste is a social concept and not an artistic one. I'm willing to show good taste, if I can, in somebody else's living room, but our reading life is too short for a writer to be in any way polite. Since his words enter into another's brain in silence and intimacy, he should be as honest and explicit as we are with ourselves.
Summary
This quote emphasizes the idea that taste, when it comes to art, is subjective and shaped by society. It suggests that one may adhere to social conventions of good taste when in someone else's space, but in the realm of literature, there should be no need for politeness. The writer has a responsibility to be honest and explicit in their words, as they have the privilege of entering the reader's mind in a private and intimate manner. It implies that true artistic expression should not be hindered by the constraints of what is considered tasteful or acceptable in society.
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By John Updike
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