Meaning: The quote "I can manage a prose format as long as I keep closer to Laurence Sterne than to Henry James" by David Antin encapsulates a profound insight into the art of writing and the influence of literary predecessors. David Antin, an influential American poet, performance artist, and art critic, is known for his innovative approach to poetry and his deep engagement with language, literature, and storytelling. In this quote, Antin makes a compelling reference to two renowned authors, Laurence Sterne and Henry James, to convey his approach to prose writing and the stylistic choices he embraces.

Laurence Sterne, an 18th-century English novelist and clergyman, is celebrated for his groundbreaking work "The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman." Sterne's novel is characterized by its experimental narrative techniques, non-linear structure, and playful engagement with the reader. The novel's digressive and whimsical style, along with its self-reflexivity and metafictional elements, have made it a landmark in the development of the modern novel. By invoking Sterne, Antin aligns himself with a tradition of writing that values inventiveness, spontaneity, and a departure from conventional narrative forms.

On the other hand, Henry James, an American writer known for his novels such as "The Portrait of a Lady" and "The Turn of the Screw," is revered for his psychological insight, intricate character development, and meticulous attention to detail. James's prose is often characterized by its dense, elaborate sentences, nuanced exploration of human consciousness, and a focus on the complexities of interpersonal relationships. By contrasting James with Sterne, Antin suggests a preference for a more expansive, free-flowing style over a tightly controlled and intricately constructed one.

Antin's statement not only reflects his personal writing preferences but also offers a broader commentary on the diversity of literary styles and the ways in which writers position themselves in relation to their predecessors. By expressing a preference for the style of Sterne over that of James, Antin indicates a fondness for writing that is open to experimentation, digression, and unconventional narrative structures. This aligns with his own approach to poetry, which often incorporates elements of improvisation, performance, and the blending of literary and oral traditions.

Moreover, Antin's reference to Sterne and James speaks to the ongoing dialogue between writers across different literary eras. Sterne's influence on later writers, particularly in the realms of modernist and postmodernist fiction, has been profound, as his narrative innovations continue to inspire experimentation and playfulness in literature. Conversely, James's meticulous craftsmanship and psychological depth have set a standard for the careful delineation of characters and the probing exploration of human experience.

In conclusion, David Antin's quote "I can manage a prose format as long as I keep closer to Laurence Sterne than to Henry James" offers a glimpse into his approach to writing and the literary traditions that inform his work. By invoking Sterne's inventive spirit and James's meticulous craftsmanship, Antin encapsulates the rich tapestry of influences that shape the evolution of literary expression. This quote not only sheds light on Antin's own aesthetic sensibilities but also invites readers to contemplate the interplay between tradition and innovation in the art of prose writing.