Meaning: This quote by Harry Mathews, an American author known for his avant-garde and experimental writing, captures the essence of his unique approach to storytelling. Mathews was a prominent figure in the Oulipo literary movement, a group of writers and mathematicians who aimed to create literature using constrained writing techniques. His work often challenges traditional narrative structures and engages the reader in unconventional ways.

In the quote, Mathews acknowledges that creating an interesting narrative has always come naturally to him. However, he also recognizes the paradoxical nature of his writing style, which both captivates and frustrates the reader by presenting an intricate narrative while simultaneously complicating the reader's ability to follow it. This duality reflects Mathews' inclination towards subverting conventional storytelling norms and pushing the boundaries of reader-author interaction.

Mathews' approach to creating an "interesting narrative" is characterized by his deliberate incorporation of playful and intricate literary devices that disrupt the linear flow of storytelling. His works often feature elements of wordplay, puzzles, and non-linear structures, challenging readers to actively engage with the text and participate in the construction of meaning. This deliberate obfuscation of the narrative path serves to heighten the reader's sense of curiosity and intellectual involvement, as they are compelled to navigate through the textual complexities presented by the author.

At every step of the narrative, Mathews strategically introduces disruptions, digressions, and ambiguities that interrupt the conventional progression of the story. These interruptions serve as a deliberate strategy to thwart the reader's expectations and compel them to reassess their role in the interpretative process. By frustrating the reader's opportunities to follow the narrative in a straightforward manner, Mathews invites them to embrace a more interactive and reflexive mode of reading, one that demands a willingness to grapple with uncertainty and ambiguity.

Mathews' idiosyncratic approach to storytelling aligns with his involvement in the Oulipo movement, which sought to explore the creative potential of self-imposed constraints and mathematical principles in literature. Through his writing, Mathews demonstrates a fascination with the intricate mechanics of language and narrative, employing constraints and unconventional techniques to craft narratives that challenge and perplex readers.

In essence, Mathews' quote encapsulates his distinctive authorial stance, one that celebrates the art of constructing complex and engaging narratives while simultaneously disrupting the reader's expectations. His work invites readers to embrace the inherent enigmas and challenges embedded within the text, prompting them to actively participate in the process of unraveling the multi-layered meanings and structures that define his unconventional storytelling style.

Overall, Harry Mathews' quote provides insight into his approach to narrative construction, inviting readers to grapple with the paradoxical interplay of captivating storytelling and deliberate frustration. It serves as a reflection of his commitment to challenging traditional literary norms and engaging readers in a thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating manner.