"Historian: an unsuccessful novelist"

H.L. Mencken's quote suggests that historians are not as successful as authors. This might be interpreted in a few methods. Firstly, it might be seen as a criticism of historians, recommending that they are not as imaginative or creative as novelists. Secondly, it could be seen as a criticism of the profession of history, suggesting that it is not as lucrative or fulfilling as composing books. Lastly, it could be viewed as a discuss the nature of history itself, suggesting that it is not as interesting or appealing as fiction. Whatever the analysis, Mencken's quote indicates that historians are not as effective as novelists.