But in this case, ” he continues, tracing the line of the plasterwork with one finger, “I feel that there is one cliché that sums up my position so admirably that it would be pure egotism to attempt a more interesting periphrasis. Plain speaking, therefore, there is to be.“ There is undoubtedly a strong possibility, notwithstanding the vagaries of contingency and misfortune, that my son mighthave fallen–or might, we could say, have voluntarily jumped, in accordance with the ethical codes with which he has been brought up–for a play you have made with some success, although, as I am persuaded you would concede, very little originality.” Plain speaking if you’re Henry James, perhaps. Deborah Meyler
About This Quote

Henry James refers to this method of writing in The Wings of the Dove. He is speaking to his son, who is in the process of studying drama in Italy. He is talking about his own work in the novel, which he has made clear he thinks has been successful, though he isn't quite sure what the right word for it should be. James further explains that while critics may not have agreed with his work, he believes that the book was a piece of art and should be judged as such by all who love literature.

Source: The Bookstore

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