Meaning: This quote by Nicholas Mosley, a British novelist, reflects his personal struggle with the genre of novel writing. In the quote, Mosley expresses his dissatisfaction with the theme of "romantic doom" that seems to pervade his earlier novels. He suggests that this dissatisfaction led him to temporarily give up writing novels, as he struggled to find a way to escape the constraints of this theme.

Nicholas Mosley was known for his exploration of complex themes and subjects in his literary works. His novels often delved into the human condition, morality, and the nature of existence. It is evident from his quote that he was grappling with the limitations of the romantic doom narrative that may have dominated his earlier novels.

The phrase "romantic doom" can be interpreted as the recurring theme of tragic love stories, doomed relationships, or inevitable and often tragic outcomes in romantic entanglements. It suggests a sense of fatalism and pessimism that permeates the romantic narratives in literature. Mosley's dissatisfaction with this theme indicates a desire to break away from the predictable and perhaps clichéd tropes of romantic storytelling.

It is important to note that many novelists, especially those with a penchant for exploring the depths of human emotions and relationships, have at some point struggled with the limitations of traditional romantic narratives. This struggle often stems from the desire to portray more nuanced and realistic depictions of love and human connections, rather than succumbing to the formulaic and predictable patterns of romantic storytelling.

Mosley's decision to take a break from novel writing following his dissatisfaction with the theme of romantic doom reflects a significant turning point in his literary career. It illustrates his commitment to evolving as a writer and challenging himself to break free from the constraints of established literary conventions. This decision also highlights the introspective nature of Mosley's approach to his craft, as he sought to reevaluate his artistic vision and narrative sensibilities.

The quote also suggests that Mosley's hiatus from writing novels was not a result of a lack of inspiration or creativity, but rather a deliberate choice to reassess his approach to storytelling. It speaks to the introspective and self-critical nature of the creative process, as well as the willingness to confront and interrogate one's own artistic inclinations.

Ultimately, Nicholas Mosley's quote provides a glimpse into the inner workings of a novelist's mind, shedding light on the complexities and challenges inherent in the creative process. It serves as a reminder of the constant evolution and self-examination that artists undergo in their pursuit of authentic and meaningful expression. Mosley's eventual return to novel writing likely marked a new chapter in his literary journey, shaped by his introspective exploration of narrative themes and his determination to transcend the confines of romantic doom.