Meaning: The quote "Every novel generates its own climate, when you get going" by Penelope Lively captures the essence of the creative process of writing a novel. Penelope Lively is a renowned author known for her insightful and thought-provoking novels that often delve into the complexities of human relationships and the passage of time. In this quote, she reflects on the unique and immersive experience of creating a novel, likening it to the formation of a distinct climate within the narrative world.

When Lively mentions that "every novel generates its own climate," she is highlighting the individuality of each literary work. Just as a climate encompasses the prevailing conditions and atmosphere of a specific geographical area, a novel creates its own world with its unique set of characters, events, and emotions. As an author, Lively understands the transformative power of storytelling, where the act of crafting a narrative gives rise to a self-contained universe that unfolds according to its own internal logic and dynamics.

The phrase "when you get going" introduces the notion of momentum and energy in the process of writing a novel. It suggests that as an author delves deeper into the creative process, the novel begins to take on a life of its own, propelling the writer forward as they immerse themselves in the world they are bringing to life. This sentiment resonates with the experience of many authors who find themselves deeply engrossed in the act of writing, feeling as though the story is guiding them as much as they are shaping it.

Furthermore, the concept of a novel generating its own climate speaks to the immersive nature of storytelling. Just as a climate can evoke certain moods, feelings, and sensory experiences, a well-crafted novel has the power to transport readers into its unique world, eliciting emotional and intellectual responses that resonate long after the book is finished. Lively's quote underscores the idea that a novel is not merely a sequence of events and characters, but a living, breathing entity that has the capacity to captivate and engage its audience.

In a broader sense, Lively's quote can also be interpreted as a testament to the diversity and richness of the literary landscape. Each novel, with its distinct climate, offers readers a fresh perspective, a new set of experiences, and a unique journey. Just as the Earth is home to a multitude of climates, from tropical rainforests to arid deserts, the world of literature encompasses an endless variety of storytelling styles, themes, and narrative voices, each contributing to the rich tapestry of human expression.

Ultimately, Penelope Lively's quote encapsulates the enchanting and transformative nature of the novel-writing process. It celebrates the power of storytelling to create immersive and evocative worlds, inviting both writers and readers to embark on a journey of discovery within the distinct climates of each literary work.