"I don't mean that literary fiction is better than genre fiction, On the contrary; novels can perform two functions and most perform only one"

Mark Haddon's quote explores the nuanced debate between literary fiction and category fiction, challenging the hierarchical perception that places literary fiction above category fiction. He starts by clearly specifying that his intention is not to declare literary fiction as remarkable, acknowledging an often-unspoken predisposition in the literary world. This sets the stage for a more inclusive understanding of the function and worth of different kinds of novels.

Haddon recommends that books, regardless of their classification, are capable of satisfying 2 primary functions. These functions can be understood as the capability to entertain and engage readers and the prospective to provoke idea or offer deeper insights into the human condition. When he mentions that "most carry out only one", Haddon is highlighting that lots of novels tend to focus on satisfying one function at the cost of the other. For instance, category fiction-- such as mystery, love, or science fiction-- may focus on storytelling, plot, and entertainment, engaging readers with their imaginative worlds and intricate plots. On the other hand, literary fiction typically stresses language, character advancement, and thematic depth, motivating readers to review more comprehensive social, philosophical, or mental problems.

By stating "On the contrary", Haddon implies that genre fiction has tremendous worth in its ability to captivate and sometimes include profound insights, while literary fiction, despite its vital recognition, might neglect the appealing narrative elements that mesmerize readers. For that reason, the quote is not simply a commentary on the abilities of various categories but a require a more integrated technique to novel writing-- a synthesis where entertainment and much deeper meaning exist side-by-side.

Eventually, Haddon encourages readers and writers alike to recognize the varied functions books can serve and to appreciate the special contributions of both literary and category fiction. In doing so, he promotes for a more pluralistic and less judgmental view of literature, where the merit of a book is not evaluated solely by its classification but by the richness of the experience it provides.