Margriet
asked
Lois McMaster Bujold:
Have you ever thought Shards & Barrayar emphasized the relationship between person and environment that brought out different versions of each? I feel VSaga is artwork, allowing interpretations within a framework of open mindedness. Mile’s stories had a drum beat of excitement that didn’t let go even when I put down the book. You inspired me to write my own novel, and I can’t thank you enough.
Lois McMaster Bujold
Well, character, setting, and plot are always interlocking, with feedback loops throughout, so that comes with the fundamental structure of fiction.
Tolkien's famous quote about the difference between allegory and applicability always struck me as cogent. To save y'all the task of looking it up, it goes, "But I cordially dislike allegory in all its manifestations, and have always done so ever since I grew old and wary enough to detect its presence. I much prefer history, true or feigned, with its varied applicability to the thought and experience of readers. I think many confuse 'applicability' with 'allegory'; but the one resides in the freedom of the reader, and the other in the purposed domination of the author."
I should be pleased if people find my work applicable.
(I think this quote also nails the difference in readerly perception of a story between "human insight" and "preachiness".)
Good luck on your writing!
Ta, L.
Well, character, setting, and plot are always interlocking, with feedback loops throughout, so that comes with the fundamental structure of fiction.
Tolkien's famous quote about the difference between allegory and applicability always struck me as cogent. To save y'all the task of looking it up, it goes, "But I cordially dislike allegory in all its manifestations, and have always done so ever since I grew old and wary enough to detect its presence. I much prefer history, true or feigned, with its varied applicability to the thought and experience of readers. I think many confuse 'applicability' with 'allegory'; but the one resides in the freedom of the reader, and the other in the purposed domination of the author."
I should be pleased if people find my work applicable.
(I think this quote also nails the difference in readerly perception of a story between "human insight" and "preachiness".)
Good luck on your writing!
Ta, L.
More Answered Questions
Beth
asked
Lois McMaster Bujold:
Ms. Bujold! I'm so glad you answer questions! My question is about the Chalion series. I really love the way you approached the question of deity. Especially _Paladin of Souls_, which made me tear up, even on the re-read. What informed your attitude toward celestial beings?
Abi
asked
Lois McMaster Bujold:
How did Barryar not have a population crisis after the time of isolation with scads more women escaping to freedom in other places? It seems like you wouldn't have to be a mercenary to get away, there'd be a thriving human trafficking operation going on like in the former Soviet block countries where women would rather be prostitutes or mail order brides to men in less heinous countries than to stay where they are.
Fauna Reynvaan
asked
Lois McMaster Bujold:
Are you planning to do any more with Admiral Quinn or the Dendaari Mercenaries? I just finished the last Vorkosigan novel...it was my first ever SciFi series and I devoured it and can't wait for more! Thank you for helping me love this genre...although I am worried that I am now spoiled and anything other than Miles (*sigh*) will be a disappointment! Although I was not disappointed by Cordelia and Jole!
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