"The only obligation to which in advance we may hold a novel, without incurring the accusation of being arbitrary, is that it be interesting"

This quote by Henry James recommends that the only expectation readers ought to have of a novel is that it be interesting. He implies that any other expectations are arbitrary and ought to not be troubled the novel. This suggests that readers must not expect a novel to have a particular ethical message, a specific style, or a certain structure. Instead, readers must simply anticipate the novel to be interesting. This quote encourages readers to be unbiased and to appreciate the special qualities of each book. It also motivates authors to be innovative and to explore different designs and structures in their writing. Eventually, this quote encourages readers and authors to appreciate the charm of literature and to focus on the satisfaction of reading.