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[fajrdrako]

A story to me means a plot where there is some surprise.... Because that is how life is, full of surprises. -- Isaac Bashevis Singer, 1904 - 1991

Comments

[countrycousin.livejournal.com]

Yes. But then there are twice told tales. :<). I certainly don't reread Dorothy Sayers and Rex Stout because I'm wondering whodunnit. :<) There are one or two others that other folks seems to enjoy hearing again.

[fajrdrako.livejournal.com]

I don't think I've ever read anyone's prononouncement on writing that I think is the last word and the whole truth. I think every reader reads for a different reason - though not necessarily a very different one. And that different writers have different writing values too.

But surprises need not be in the plot. They can also be bits of characterization, or theme, or background.

I love rereading Dorothy Dunnett novels, but it's only on first reading that the many plot suprises are going to be important. After that - I think I still get a thrill from some of the surprises, but it's a different sort of thrill that incorporates anticipation.

[countrycousin.livejournal.com]

Good points. For books I reread, there is often something new and always something delightful to be re-experienced.

[fajrdrako.livejournal.com]

I'd say that though I like to see a surprise in a story, it isn't the most important thing. What I look for is something a little different - a new way of looking at something, particularly with an emotional punch - a bit of insight.