Meaning: The quote by Ken Follett, a prominent author known for his historical and thriller novels, highlights a significant shift in storytelling techniques over time. In the past, Victorian novelists were inclined to write long passages of undramatic summary to narrate events, whereas contemporary storytelling often involves cutting from one dramatic scene to the next. This observation sheds light on the evolution of narrative styles and the impact of changing literary preferences on storytelling.

During the Victorian era, which spanned from the early 19th century to the beginning of the 20th century, the novel was a dominant form of literary expression. Writers such as Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, and the Brontë sisters crafted elaborate narratives that often included extensive descriptions, detailed character development, and lengthy passages of exposition. These novels were characterized by their intricate plots and the exploration of social, political, and moral themes.

In contrast, modern storytelling has been influenced by various factors, including changes in readers' preferences, advancements in technology, and the influence of other media forms such as film and television. As a result, contemporary narratives often prioritize fast-paced, visually engaging storytelling that captures the audience's attention from one dramatic moment to the next.

The shift from long passages of undramatic summary to a more dynamic, scene-cutting approach reflects a desire for immediacy and a focus on capturing the reader's interest through heightened tension and emotion. This trend is particularly evident in genres such as thrillers, suspense, and action-packed novels, where the rapid pace of the narrative is essential to maintaining the reader's engagement.

Furthermore, the influence of visual media, such as movies and television, has contributed to the evolution of storytelling techniques. Audiences today are accustomed to the quick cuts, intense action sequences, and visually captivating storytelling found in films and TV shows. As a result, writers have adapted their storytelling methods to reflect these changing audience expectations, opting for a more cinematic approach to narrative structure.

Additionally, the rise of digital media and the prevalence of short attention spans in the internet age have also played a role in shaping contemporary storytelling. With the abundance of digital content competing for readers' attention, writers often strive to create narratives that are immediately gripping and capable of sustaining the reader's interest in a fast-paced, information-saturated environment.

While the shift towards a more dynamic, scene-cutting approach to storytelling has its merits in terms of capturing readers' attention and maintaining suspense, it also raises questions about the balance between action and reflection, as well as the depth of character development and thematic exploration. The Victorian novelists' practice of incorporating long passages of undramatic summary allowed for a more leisurely exploration of the intricacies of human experience, social dynamics, and moral dilemmas.

In conclusion, Ken Follett's observation about the evolution of storytelling techniques from long passages of undramatic summary to a scene-cutting approach underscores the dynamic nature of literary expression. The shift reflects not only changes in audience preferences and the influence of visual media but also raises important considerations about the impact of these changes on the depth and complexity of storytelling. As writers continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of storytelling, the balance between dramatic immediacy and reflective depth remains a crucial aspect of crafting compelling narratives.