“El autor debe estar en su libro como Dios en su universo, presente en todas partes, pero siempre invisible.”
Explore This Quote Further
Analysis of Quote by Gustave Flaubert
The quote by Gustave Flaubert emphasizes the importance of the author being present throughout their work, much like how God is present in the universe. This implies that the author's voice and influence should be felt in every aspect of the book, despite remaining unseen. It highlights the idea that a well-crafted book is one in which the author's perspective and style pervade the narrative without overshadowing the story itself. This quote speaks to the nuanced balance that authors must strike between making their mark on a work and allowing the story and characters to shine on their own.
Importance of Authorial Presence in Literature
In today's digital age, where authors have more ways than ever to interact with readers through social media and other platforms, Gustave Flaubert's words about the author being present in their book yet invisible continue to hold relevance. Just as God is omnipresent but unseen in the universe, the author should leave their mark on the pages of their work without overshadowing the story or message they wish to convey. This balance of presence and invisibility allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the world created by the author, connecting with the characters and themes on a deeper level.
Gustave Flaubert on the Presence of the Author in their Work
One famous quote by Gustave Flaubert states: “El autor debe estar en su libro como Dios en su universo, presente en todas partes, pero siempre invisible.” This quote highlights the idea that an author should be present throughout their work, guiding the narrative and characters, but remain unseen by the reader.
Reflection Questions
Reflecting on this quote by Gustave Flaubert, consider the role of an author in creating a world within their work.
- In what ways does the author's presence shape the narrative of a story?
- How can an author skillfully weave their presence throughout a book without overpowering the reader's experience?
- Do you believe that authors should strive to remain "invisible" in their works, or is there value in their personal voice shining through?
- How does Flaubert's comparison of an author to God in their universe influence your perspective on the relationship between creator and creation in literature?
Similar quotes
“Toda la amargura de la existencia le parecía servida en su plato, y, con el humo del cocido, subían desde el fondo de su alma algo así como otras bocanadas del hastío”
“¡Qué cosa mejor, en efecto, que estar en casa por la noche con un libro junto al fuego, mientras el viento bate los vidrios y la lámpara se consume!”
“Se conocían demasiado para gozar de aquellos embelesos de la pasión que centuplican su gozo. Ella estaba tan hastiada de él como él cansado de ella. Emma volvía a encontrar en el adulterio todas las soserías del matrimonio”
“Y ya sentía en su corazón esa docilidad cobarde que es, para muchas mujeres, a la vez el castigo y el precio del adulterio.”
“Entonces seguro de ser amado, no se molestó, e insensiblemente sus maneras cambiaron. Ya no empleaba como antes aquellas palabras tan dulces que la hacían llorar, ni aquellas vehementes caricias...de modo que su gran amor en el que vivía inmersa le pareció que iba descendiendo bajo sus pies...percibió el fango. No quería creerlo; redobló su ternura; y Rodolfo, cada vez menos, ocultó su indiferencia.”
“No hay que tocar a los ídolos: su dorado se nos queda en las manos”