Meaning: The quote by Robert Morgan, "With prose you can incorporate more details, develop scenes, sustain the tension in a special way. Prose has its own speed," speaks to the unique qualities of prose writing and the ways in which it allows for a different kind of storytelling compared to other forms of literature. Prose, as a literary form, encompasses both fiction and non-fiction writing that is organized into sentences and paragraphs. It is the most common form of written language and is used in a variety of mediums including novels, short stories, essays, and articles.

One of the key strengths of prose writing, as highlighted in the quote, is its ability to incorporate rich details. Unlike poetry, which often relies on concise and evocative language, prose allows for a more expansive exploration of characters, settings, and events. This means that writers can paint a vivid and detailed picture of their story world, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the narrative. Through the use of descriptive language and imagery, prose writers can create a multi-sensory experience for their audience, bringing the story to life in a way that is unique to the form.

In addition to incorporating more details, prose also allows for the development of scenes in a way that can be sustained over a longer period of time. Unlike drama or film, which rely on visual and auditory elements to convey setting and action, prose can delve deeply into the internal thoughts and emotions of characters, as well as the nuances of their interactions with each other and the environment. This means that writers can build and expand upon scenes, gradually unfolding the narrative and allowing for a more gradual and immersive experience for the reader.

The quote also speaks to the unique ability of prose to sustain tension in a special way. Through the careful manipulation of pacing, language, and narrative structure, prose writers can create and maintain a sense of suspense and anticipation throughout their work. This can be achieved through the use of foreshadowing, dramatic irony, and the gradual revelation of information, keeping readers engaged and invested in the story as it unfolds. Whether it is a gripping thriller or a poignant literary novel, prose has the capacity to sustain tension and keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Finally, the quote alludes to the idea that prose has its own speed. This can be interpreted in several ways. On one level, it speaks to the flexibility of prose writing in terms of pacing and rhythm. Unlike poetry, which often has a more structured and rhythmic cadence, prose can vary in its tempo and flow, allowing writers to modulate the speed at which the story unfolds. This gives writers the freedom to control the ebb and flow of the narrative, creating moments of quiet reflection as well as intense, fast-paced action.

In conclusion, Robert Morgan's quote encapsulates the unique strengths of prose writing, emphasizing its capacity for rich detail, scene development, tension sustenance, and narrative pacing. Through the artful use of language and storytelling techniques, prose writers have the ability to create immersive and compelling narratives that resonate with readers in a special way. Whether it's through the vivid depiction of a setting, the gradual unfolding of a tense and suspenseful plot, or the careful modulation of pacing, prose writing offers a distinct and powerful mode of storytelling that continues to captivate and engage audiences across the literary landscape.