Meaning: The quote you've provided is from Alexandra Ripley, the author of the sequel to Margaret Mitchell's famous novel, "Gone with the Wind." In this quote, Ripley expresses her puzzlement at the enduring appeal of Scarlett O'Hara, one of the central characters in the original novel. She acknowledges the struggle she faced in writing the sequel because she found Scarlett to be a challenging character to understand and relate to.

Scarlett O'Hara is a complex and controversial character who has fascinated readers and literary scholars for decades. In Margaret Mitchell's novel, Scarlett is portrayed as a headstrong, manipulative, and often selfish young woman who is determined to survive and thrive in the midst of the American Civil War and its aftermath. Her resilience and unwillingness to conform to societal norms have made her a compelling and polarizing figure in literature.

Ripley's comment about Scarlett being "virtually illiterate" and having "no taste" may seem harsh, but it reflects the author's own perspective on the character. Scarlett is indeed depicted as a woman who is more concerned with survival and success than with traditional education or refinement. Her actions and decisions often defy societal expectations and norms, making her a challenging character for some readers to empathize with.

Furthermore, Ripley's observation that Scarlett "never learns from her mistakes" speaks to the character's flawed nature. Throughout "Gone with the Wind," Scarlett makes numerous impulsive and often destructive choices, and her unwillingness to heed the consequences of her actions is a central aspect of her characterization. This aspect of her personality has been a point of contention among readers and critics, with some finding her lack of personal growth frustrating and others seeing it as a realistic portrayal of human nature.

Despite these qualities, Scarlett O'Hara has remained a captivating and enduring literary figure. Her resilience, determination, and unwillingness to conform to societal expectations have resonated with many readers, making her an iconic character in American literature. Her complexity and internal struggles have made her a subject of fascination and analysis for scholars and readers alike.

Ripley's struggle with understanding and portraying Scarlett in her sequel speaks to the challenges of building upon a character that has become larger than life. While Scarlett may not be the kind of person that Ripley personally relates to, her appeal to readers lies in her defiance of traditional gender roles and her unapologetic pursuit of her own desires in a time of immense societal upheaval.

In conclusion, Alexandra Ripley's quote offers a glimpse into the complex and enduring appeal of Scarlett O'Hara as a literary character. Despite her flaws and controversial nature, Scarlett's resilience and refusal to conform to societal norms have cemented her status as an iconic figure in literature. Her portrayal continues to spark discussions and analysis, making her a character that is deeply embedded in the cultural consciousness.