"The king died and then the queen died is a story. The king died, and then queen died of grief is a plot"
- E. M. Forster
About this Quote
This quote by E. M. Forster is a comparison in between a story and a plot. A story is merely a recounting of occasions, while a plot is a narrative that has a function or significance. In the very first example, the king and queen both die, however there is no explanation as to why. This is a story, as it is simply a stating of occasions. In the 2nd example, the queen dies of sorrow after the king passes away. This is a plot, as it has a purpose and significance. The queen's death is an outcome of the king's death, and it conveys a message about the power of love and sorrow. This quote is a pointer that stories and plots are not the exact same, which a plot is more meaningful and powerful than a story.
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