Sethra Lavode Quotes

“It is always man's ideas which drive his actions. This has, at times, resulted in great evil; but as we look around us, we cannot doubt that it has resulted in greater good.”
― Steven Brust, Sethra Lavode

“A novel, in which all is created by the author's whim, must strike a more profound level of truth, or it is worthless."

"And yet, I have heard you say that any novel that relieves your ennui for an hour has proved its usefulness."

"You have a good memory. It must have been ten thousands of years ago that I uttered those words."

"And if it was?"

"In another ten thousand, perhaps I will agree with them again."

"In my opinion, the proper way to judge a novel is this: Does it give one an accurate reflection of the moods and characteristics of a particular group of people in a particular place at a particular time? If so, it has value. Otherwise, it has none."

"You do not find this rather narrow?"

"Madam—"

"Well?"

"I was quoting you.”
― Steven Brust, Sethra Lavode