William Gaddis quotes

William Gaddis was an influential American author known for his complex and daring novels. With a writing style that defied conventional norms, Gaddis challenged readers and critics alike. Born in 1922, his works gained significant recognition in the postmodern literary landscape. Gaddis explored themes of capitalism, bureaucracy, and the failures of modern society, often employing unconventional narrative techniques. Titles like "The Recognitions" and "JR" showcased his ability to dissect and critique contemporary culture. Gaddis' impactful contributions to literature earned him numerous prestigious awards. Discover the captivating world of William Gaddis and his unique literary vision.

Stupidity is the deliberate cultivation of ignorance.

- William Gaddis

What is it they want from the man that they didn't get from the work? What do they expect? What is there left when he's done with his work, what's any artist but the dregs of his work, the human shambles that follows it around?

- William Gaddis

He was the only person caught in the collapse, and afterward, most of his work was recovered too, and it is still spoken of, when it is noted, with high regard, though seldom played.

- William Gaddis

I see the player piano as the grandfather of the computer, the ancestor of the entire nightmare we live in, the birth of the binary world where there is no option other than yes or no and where there is no refuge.

- William Gaddis

Justice? You get justice in the next world, in this world you have the law.

- William Gaddis

We're comic. We're all comics. We live in a comic time. And the worse it gets the more comic we are.

- William Gaddis