Because, if one is writing novels today, concentrating on the beauty of the prose is right up there with concentrating on your semi-colons, for wasted effort.
Neil Gaiman's quote highlights the importance of focusing on the essence of storytelling, rather than getting bogged down in minor details. He suggests that concentrating on the beauty of the prose is a futile effort, much like worrying about semi-colons. This quote encourages writers to prioritize the core message and emotional resonance of their stories over the nuances of language.
Gaiman's quote emphasizes the value of simplicity and clarity in storytelling. It implies that the most effective stories are those that convey a powerful message or evoke a strong emotional response, rather than those that focus on elaborate language or complex structures.
Neil Gaiman is a British author of fantasy, horror, and science fiction. He is best known for his novels, such as 'Good Omens' and 'American Gods', as well as his work on the TV series 'Doctor Who' and 'Good Omens'.
This quote can be applied to various forms of writing, including fiction, non-fiction, and even social media posts. It encourages writers to focus on the essence of their message and avoid getting bogged down in minor details.