Meaning: This quote by Saul Bellow, a renowned American novelist and Nobel Prize winner in Literature, beautifully captures the essence of the relationship between a reader and a novelist. Bellow compares the trust and confidence one places in a novelist to that in a surgeon, emphasizing the importance of feeling secure and in capable hands.

Novelists, like surgeons, have the power to transport their audience to different worlds, evoke emotions, and provoke thoughts. Just as a surgeon holds the responsibility for a person's physical well-being during a medical procedure, a novelist holds the responsibility for guiding the reader through the intricate and often emotional journey of a story. The quote suggests that for a reader to fully immerse themselves in a novel, they must feel a sense of trust and confidence in the author's ability to guide them through the narrative.

In the context of a surgeon, the administration of anesthesia is a critical moment that requires trust in the medical professional. Similarly, in the world of literature, the opening pages of a novel serve as the introduction to the author's narrative and writing style. This is where the reader must feel that they are in "good hands" - that the author possesses the skill and expertise to guide them through the story.

Bellow's comparison also highlights the vulnerability of the reader and the need for assurance and confidence in the author's ability to deliver a compelling and meaningful experience. Just as a patient relies on a surgeon to provide relief from pain and healing, a reader seeks emotional and intellectual engagement from a novelist. This emotional investment in a novel is what creates a deep connection between the reader and the author.

For a reader to accept the "anesthetic" of a novel, they must trust that the author will lead them through the story with skill and sensitivity. The "anesthetic" can be seen as a metaphor for the suspension of disbelief, the willingness to be carried away by the narrative, and the ability to empathize with the characters and their experiences. It is the novelist's responsibility to create a world that captivates and envelops the reader, allowing them to temporarily escape reality and become immersed in the story.

Furthermore, the comparison to a surgeon also underscores the precision and expertise required in the craft of writing. Just as a surgeon's skill is honed through years of training and experience, a novelist's ability to weave a compelling narrative is the result of dedication, practice, and a deep understanding of storytelling techniques. The quote acknowledges the level of trust readers place in authors and the weight of responsibility that comes with crafting a novel that can truly captivate and resonate with its audience.

In conclusion, Saul Bellow's analogy of a novelist to a surgeon beautifully encapsulates the trust, confidence, and vulnerability that are inherent in the reader-author relationship. It emphasizes the importance of skill, expertise, and the ability to transport and engage readers in a compelling narrative. As readers, we seek authors who can skillfully administer the "anesthetic" of storytelling, leading us into worlds we can trust and believe in.