Famous quote by Sidney Sheldon

"Usually, when people get to the end of a chapter, they close the book and go to sleep. I deliberately write a book so when the reader gets to the end of the chapter, he or she must turn one more page"

About this Quote

Sidney Sheldon's quote reveals an extensive insight into the art of storytelling and the intents of a proficient author. At its core, the quote highlights the importance of keeping a reader's engagement and interest.

To start with, when Sheldon mentions that people usually "close the book and go to sleep" at the end of a chapter, he is highlighting a natural tendency of readers to discover resting points within a narrative. Chapters often work as practical psychological pauses, where a reader can take a break, process the info, or just wander off into other activities or sleep. These stops briefly are important for pacing, yet they can in some cases interrupt the momentum of the story if not efficiently handled.

Sheldon's purposeful strategy of weaving a story that forces the reader to "turn another page" suggests a mindful effort to fight this prospective disengagement. His objective is to construct chapters that end on a tense, appealing, or unresolved note, thus sparking a sense of anticipation or urgency in the reader. Strategies such as cliffhangers, incomplete dialogue, or unexpected plot twists can serve this function, leaving the reader excited to find what happens next.

Moreover, this approach highlights an understanding of reader psychology. People are naturally curious beings, and a tip of the unknown can be a powerful incentive. By crafting his narrative to deal with this natural interest, Sheldon ensures that his audience remains mentally and intellectually invested in the story. This not only improves the reader's experience but also contributes to the memorability and impact of the book.

Ultimately, Sheldon's quote is a testament to the ability and objective behind reliable storytelling. It shows his goal of developing an immersive and dynamic reading experience, one in which the narrative continuously propels itself forward, and readers are not just passive receivers but active individuals, compelled by the need to discover what lies beyond the next page.

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About the Author

USA Flag This quote is from Sidney Sheldon between February 11, 1917 and January 30, 2007. He/she was a famous Novelist from USA. The author also have 29 other quotes.
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