Meaning: This quote by John Mortimer, a renowned novelist, humorously captures the transient nature of the literary world for contemporary hardback writers. The analogy of the shelf life being somewhere between milk and yogurt conveys the idea that the success and relevance of modern hardback writers are fleeting and short-lived. This quote sheds light on the challenges and realities faced by writers in today's literary landscape, where the competition is fierce, and the lifespan of a book's popularity is often limited.

In understanding this quote, it's essential to consider the context of the modern publishing industry. With the proliferation of digital media, e-books, and self-publishing platforms, the traditional hardback book market has undergone significant changes. Writers are not only competing with each other but also contending with evolving reader preferences and consumption habits. As a result, the lifespan of a hardback writer's work may indeed be comparable to the shelf life of perishable goods like milk and yogurt.

The comparison to milk and yogurt implies that the success of a modern hardback writer is subject to expiration or obsolescence. Milk, with its relatively short shelf life, is a metaphor for the limited window of opportunity in which a book may capture the public's attention and achieve commercial success. Similarly, yogurt, while having a longer shelf life than milk, is still perishable and prone to spoilage over time. This analogy suggests that even books that initially enjoy moderate success may eventually fade into obscurity as new titles and trends emerge.

The quote also reflects the precarious nature of literary fame and relevance. In the fast-paced, ever-changing landscape of the publishing industry, writers must continuously adapt and innovate to sustain their careers. The market demands fresh, engaging content, and writers who fail to meet these expectations risk being overshadowed by newer voices and trends.

Moreover, the comparison to perishable goods underscores the economic realities of the publishing world. Just as perishable items have a limited window for sale before they expire, books face a similar challenge in capturing the attention of readers and generating sales. The pressure to achieve immediate success can be daunting for writers, especially when considering the significant time and effort invested in creating a book.

From a reader's perspective, Mortimer's quote may also highlight the transient nature of literary tastes and trends. Like perishable goods that are consumed and replaced, books too must vie for attention in a market saturated with new releases and ever-changing consumer preferences. The quote serves as a reminder that what is popular and cherished today may soon be supplanted by the next literary sensation.

In conclusion, John Mortimer's quote poignantly encapsulates the challenges and impermanence faced by modern hardback writers in the literary world. The analogy of the shelf life being between milk and yogurt effectively communicates the fleeting nature of success and relevance in the publishing industry. This thought-provoking quote serves as a poignant commentary on the dynamics of the contemporary literary landscape and the transient nature of literary fame.