Meaning: The quote "Saul Bellow never took my advice when he was my friend" by Leslie Fiedler, a literary critic, is a fascinating insight into the relationship between two prominent figures in the literary world. This quote reflects the complex and often tumultuous nature of the relationship between Bellow and Fiedler, shedding light on the dynamics of their friendship and the challenges they may have faced.

Saul Bellow was a renowned American writer and Nobel laureate, known for his insightful and often introspective novels that explored the complexities of human nature and the immigrant experience in America. Leslie Fiedler, on the other hand, was a prominent literary critic and scholar, known for his influential works on American literature and popular culture.

The quote suggests that Fiedler, despite being a friend of Bellow, felt that his advice was not heeded by the acclaimed author. This could indicate a sense of frustration or disappointment on Fiedler's part, as he may have believed that his insights and recommendations could have benefited Bellow in some way. It also hints at the complexities of their friendship, as well as the potential power dynamics and differing perspectives that may have influenced their interactions.

The quote may also offer a glimpse into the creative and intellectual independence of Bellow, who was known for his strong-willed and individualistic approach to his writing. Bellow's refusal to take Fiedler's advice could reflect his commitment to his own artistic vision and his resistance to outside influence, even from a friend and esteemed critic like Fiedler. This aspect of Bellow's personality adds depth to our understanding of the complexities of the creative process and the relationships between writers and their peers.

In the context of literary criticism and the dynamics of author-critic relationships, this quote raises thought-provoking questions about the role of advice and feedback in the creative process. It invites consideration of the boundaries between personal relationships and professional guidance, as well as the challenges of offering and receiving feedback within the context of friendship.

The quote also invites speculation about the nature of the advice that Fiedler may have offered to Bellow. It is possible that Fiedler's advice could have ranged from matters of literary technique and style to broader thematic and conceptual considerations. Understanding the nature of the advice that Fiedler offered could provide valuable insights into their intellectual exchanges and the areas of potential disagreement or divergence between them.

In conclusion, the quote "Saul Bellow never took my advice when he was my friend" by Leslie Fiedler offers a thought-provoking glimpse into the complexities of the relationship between two influential figures in the literary world. It invites reflection on the dynamics of friendship, the challenges of offering and receiving advice, and the complexities of creative independence and influence. This quote serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of artistic relationships and the intricate interplay between personal connections and professional dynamics in the world of literature.