Meaning: This quote by Arthur Herzog, a well-known novelist, touches on the concept of the "universal narrator" in literature. It highlights the unique ability of a narrator to have omniscient knowledge and to enter a character's mind at will. This concept is often seen in literature and is a key element in storytelling, particularly in works of fiction.

The "universal narrator" refers to the narrator of a story who possesses a comprehensive understanding of the events, characters, and settings within the narrative. This narrator is not limited by the constraints of a single character's perspective and has the ability to provide insights and information that extend beyond the individual experiences of the characters. The universal narrator can transcend time, space, and the limitations of individual consciousness, offering a comprehensive and all-encompassing view of the story.

One of the defining characteristics of the universal narrator is the omniscient perspective it provides. This means that the narrator is all-knowing, possessing knowledge about the thoughts, feelings, and motivations of the characters, as well as the broader context in which the story unfolds. This omniscient viewpoint allows the narrator to provide a deeper understanding of the characters' actions and decisions, as well as the implications of the events that occur within the narrative.

Furthermore, the quote emphasizes the universal narrator's ability to "enter a character's head any time he chooses." This aspect of the universal narrator's role highlights its capacity to delve into the inner thoughts and emotions of the characters, offering readers a direct insight into their minds. This ability to shift between different characters' perspectives enables the narrator to provide a multifaceted and nuanced portrayal of the story, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the characters' experiences and motivations.

In literature, the universal narrator is often associated with the use of an omniscient point of view, where the narrator is not constrained by the limitations of a single character's perspective. This narrative technique has been employed in various literary works, including classic novels such as Leo Tolstoy's "War and Peace" and Charles Dickens' "Bleak House." In these works, the universal narrator provides a panoramic view of the story, offering insights into the inner workings of the characters' minds and the broader societal and historical contexts in which the narratives unfold.

The concept of the universal narrator has been a subject of considerable discussion and debate among literary scholars and critics. While some view the omniscient narrator as a valuable tool for providing a comprehensive and authoritative perspective on the story, others have raised questions about the potential limitations of this narrative approach. Critics have argued that the omniscient narrator may distance readers from the characters' experiences, creating a sense of detachment and reducing the emotional impact of the story.

In conclusion, Arthur Herzog's quote about the universal narrator encapsulates the unique role of the omniscient narrator in literature. This concept underscores the narrator's ability to possess comprehensive knowledge and to enter the minds of characters at will, offering readers a multifaceted and all-encompassing view of the narrative. The universal narrator's omniscient perspective and capacity to shift between characters' viewpoints contribute to a rich and complex portrayal of the story, making it a valuable narrative technique in the realm of fiction.