"The reader has to be creative when he's reading. He has to try to make the thing alive. A good reader has to do a certain amount of work when he is reading"

Nathalie Sarraute's quote underscores a dynamic relationship between the reader and the text, stressing that reading is not a passive activity but an interactive, innovative process. In her view, the reader functions as an active individual who brings the story to life through creativity and individual interpretation. This concept lines up with the principles of literary engagement where the significance of a text is not exclusively included within its words but is co-created by the reader.

When Sarraute points out that the reader should "try to make the thing alive", she is describing the need for readers to inject vigor into the narrative. This includes more than simply soaking up the plot or valuing the prose; it requires an imaginative engagement with the characters, settings, and styles. Every reader includes a distinct set of experiences, emotions, and thoughts that influence their interpretation, making each reading experience unique.

The concept of the reader doing "a particular quantity of work" recommends that texts typically contain several layers of significance. A great reader actively delves into these subtleties, asking questions and drawing connections that may not be right away apparent. This effort belongs to a dialogue in between the reader and the text where understanding is continually worked out and constructed.

Sarraute's assertion likewise highlights the transformative power of literature. By engaging artistically with a text, readers can broaden their perspectives, empathize with different perspectives, and even discover reflections of their own lives within the narrative. This innovative interaction enhances the reading experience, making it a deeply individual and transformative journey.

Eventually, Sarraute champs the idea that the artistry of literature is a collaboration between writer and reader. While the author prepares through the composed word, it is the reader's creative engagement that breathes life into the story, making literature a living, evolving art kind.