In this quote, John Irving reflects on the impact of his novel "The World According To Garp" on readers who had lost children. He admits that he himself has not experienced such a tragedy, but he empathizes with those who have. By confessing that he is just a father with a good imagination, Irving acknowledges the power of fiction to evoke real emotions and experiences. He reveals that, in his imagination, he loses his children every day, suggesting the depth of his connection to the characters he creates. This quote highlights the ability of literature to forge connections between author and reader, even in the face of unimaginable loss.
John Irving's quote from the afterword of "The World According to Garp" highlights the deep emotional connections readers can have with a work of fiction. As author, Irving acknowledges the impact his writing has had on those who have experienced loss, demonstrating the modern relevance of literature in fostering empathy and understanding.
"When (The World According To) Garp was published, people who’d lost children wrote to me. ‘’I lost one, too,’’ they told me. I confessed to them that I hadn’t lost any children. I’m just a father with a good imagination. In my imagination, I lose my children every day. (afterword)" - John Irving
As we think about the words of John Irving and the impact of his novel "The World According To Garp," it's important to reflect on the themes of loss, imagination, and parenthood. Here are some questions to consider: