Meaning: This quote by William Peter Blatty, the author of the renowned novel "The Exorcist," offers an intriguing perspective on the genre of his own work. In this quote, Blatty expresses his reluctance to categorize "The Exorcist" as a horror novel, instead suggesting that it fits better within the realms of supernatural detective stories or paranormal police procedurals. This perspective challenges traditional notions of horror literature and invites readers to consider "The Exorcist" from a different angle.

"The Exorcist," published in 1971, is a novel that has left an indelible mark on popular culture. The story revolves around the possession of a young girl named Regan MacNeil and the subsequent attempts to exorcise the demon that has taken hold of her. Blatty's narrative skillfully weaves together elements of horror, suspense, and supernatural intrigue, creating an atmosphere of terror and suspense that has captivated readers for decades.

Blatty's assertion that "The Exorcist" is not a horror novel but rather a "suspenseful supernatural detective story" or "paranormal police procedural" offers a fresh perspective on the novel's thematic and narrative elements. By aligning his work with the conventions of detective stories and police procedurals, Blatty emphasizes the investigative and procedural aspects of the plot. Indeed, a significant portion of the novel focuses on the efforts of Father Damien Karras and Father Lankester Merrin to understand and combat the demonic force possessing Regan. This analytical and problem-solving approach mirrors the investigative methods employed in traditional detective and police procedural fiction.

Furthermore, Blatty's characterization of "The Exorcist" as a "suspenseful supernatural" story highlights the novel's emphasis on building tension and uncertainty. Throughout the narrative, the supernatural elements are intricately interwoven with the psychological and emotional struggles of the characters, creating a sense of unease and foreboding that goes beyond mere horror. By framing the story in terms of suspense, Blatty underscores the nuanced and multi-layered nature of the novel's thematic content.

Blatty's choice of words in this quote also sheds light on his own interpretation of the genre of horror. By explicitly stating that he has never read horror, he distances himself from the traditional conventions and expectations associated with the genre. Instead, he positions "The Exorcist" within a framework that aligns with his own understanding of storytelling and narrative dynamics. This suggests that Blatty was intentionally subverting genre expectations and exploring new territory within the broader landscape of literature.

In the decades since its publication, "The Exorcist" has been the subject of numerous critical interpretations and adaptations, including a highly successful film adaptation directed by William Friedkin. The novel's enduring popularity and cultural impact can be attributed, in part, to its ability to defy easy categorization and elicit diverse responses from readers and critics alike.

In conclusion, William Peter Blatty's quote offers a thought-provoking reevaluation of the genre classification of "The Exorcist." By framing his novel as a "suspenseful supernatural detective story" or "paranormal police procedural," Blatty challenges traditional notions of horror literature and invites readers to engage with his work from a different perspective. This quote not only provides insight into Blatty's own interpretation of his novel but also encourages readers to reconsider the boundaries and possibilities of genre fiction.