Meaning: The quote "Every once in a while I feel the tremendous force of the novel. But it does not stay with me" is a reflection on the impact and fleeting nature of the experience of reading a powerful piece of literature. This quote is attributed to Zane Grey, an American author best known for his popular adventure novels and stories of the American West. Grey's works often depicted the rugged landscapes and characters of the frontier, and he was a prolific writer whose novels continue to captivate readers with their vivid imagery and compelling narratives.

In this quote, Grey seems to be expressing a sense of transience in his experience with powerful novels. He acknowledges that there are moments when he is deeply affected by the force of a novel, suggesting that he is moved by the emotional and intellectual power of a well-crafted story. However, he also notes that this impact does not endure, implying that the profound influence of the novel fades over time.

Grey's words may resonate with many readers who have experienced the intense emotions and thought-provoking insights that a remarkable novel can evoke. The quote captures the ephemeral nature of the reading experience, as well as the challenge of sustaining the profound impact of a novel beyond the initial encounter. It suggests that while the force of a novel can be powerful in the moment, it may not leave a lasting imprint on the reader's consciousness.

One interpretation of this quote is that Grey is speaking to the transient nature of emotional and intellectual experiences in general. Just as powerful emotions can be fleeting, so too can the impact of a novel diminish as time passes and other concerns take precedence in one's life. Grey's reflection may also allude to the elusive nature of literary inspiration and the difficulty of maintaining a sustained connection to the profound themes and insights contained within a novel.

It is also worth considering the context in which Grey wrote these words. As a prominent author of adventure and Western fiction, Grey likely had a deep appreciation for the power of storytelling and the impact of narrative on the human psyche. His own works often explored themes of courage, perseverance, and the clash of civilizations, and it is possible that his quote reflects his own struggles with capturing and preserving the force of these themes in his writing.

In conclusion, Zane Grey's quote "Every once in a while I feel the tremendous force of the novel. But it does not stay with me" offers a thought-provoking insight into the fleeting nature of the impact of powerful literature. It encapsulates the transient and evanescent nature of the reading experience, highlighting the challenge of sustaining the profound influence of a novel over time. Whether reflecting on the emotional resonance of a well-crafted story or the difficulty of preserving the enduring power of literary inspiration, Grey's words invite readers to contemplate the ephemerality of the novel's force and the complex dynamics of reader-author engagement.