Meaning: The quote you provided is from the Argentine author Manuel Puig, who is best known for his novel "Kiss of the Spider Woman." In this quote, Puig expresses his dissatisfaction with the utility of book reviews, highlighting that they have never been helpful to him. He criticizes the tendency of reviewers to misinterpret the content of his work, and he dismisses the value of their efforts as a waste of time.

Puig's perspective on book reviews reflects a common frustration felt by many authors. While reviews can serve as a means of promoting and critiquing literature, they are not without their limitations and drawbacks. It is important to consider the context in which Puig made this statement and to explore the broader implications of his views on the role of book reviews in the literary world.

One possible interpretation of Puig's statement is that he may have felt misunderstood or misrepresented by critics. Authors often invest significant time and effort into crafting their work, and they may feel frustrated when reviewers fail to grasp the intended meaning or themes. Puig's comment suggests a level of disillusionment with the critical reception of his writing, and it raises questions about the impact of reviews on an author's creative process and public perception.

Additionally, Puig's critique of book reviews may reflect a broader skepticism towards the subjective nature of literary criticism. Reviewers bring their own perspectives, biases, and preferences to their analyses, which can result in divergent interpretations of a given work. Puig's assertion that most reviews have erred in their interpretations suggests a lack of confidence in the objectivity and accuracy of critical assessments. This perspective challenges the notion that reviews offer definitive or authoritative insights into the merit of a literary work.

Moreover, Puig's dismissal of book reviews as a waste of time raises important questions about the purpose and value of literary criticism. While reviews can influence readers' perceptions and purchasing decisions, Puig's statement underscores the limitations of reviews in capturing the essence and significance of a literary work. It prompts consideration of alternative means of engaging with literature, such as author interviews, scholarly analysis, and reader discussions, that may offer more nuanced and meaningful perspectives on a book's content and impact.

In conclusion, Manuel Puig's quote about book reviews provides insight into the complexities and challenges of the literary world. His frustration with the perceived shortcomings of reviews reflects broader concerns about the limitations of critical assessments and the subjective nature of interpretation. By critically examining Puig's perspective, we can gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics between authors, reviewers, and readers, and we can explore the evolving role of book reviews in shaping literary discourse.