Meaning: The quote "We inherit plots. There are only two or three in the world, five or six at most. We ride them like treadmills." by Janette Hospital speaks to the idea that there are only a limited number of fundamental storylines or narratives in the world, and that these plots are continually recycled and reused in various forms of literature, film, and other media. This concept has been a topic of discussion and debate among storytellers, scholars, and critics for centuries.

The notion of limited fundamental plots can be traced back to ancient times. Aristotle, in his work "Poetics," discussed the concept of basic story structures and character types. He identified a few key plot types, such as comedy and tragedy, and described the essential elements of storytelling. Throughout history, other theorists and literary scholars have expanded on this idea, proposing various frameworks for understanding the fundamental plots that underpin all narratives.

One of the most famous attempts to categorize fundamental plots is Christopher Booker's book "The Seven Basic Plots: Why We Tell Stories." In this work, Booker argues that there are seven archetypal storylines that form the basis of all narratives. These plots include Overcoming the Monster, Rags to Riches, The Quest, Voyage and Return, Comedy, Tragedy, and Rebirth. According to Booker, these plots can be found in countless stories throughout history and across cultures.

Janette Hospital's quote captures the essence of this idea by suggesting that there are only a small number of fundamental plots in the world, and that storytellers continually "inherit" and "ride" these plots like treadmills, reworking them in different ways to create new and engaging narratives. This perspective highlights the cyclical nature of storytelling, where familiar themes and patterns reappear in different guises, providing comfort and familiarity to audiences while also allowing for fresh interpretations and variations.

From a critical standpoint, the concept of limited fundamental plots raises questions about originality, creativity, and the nature of storytelling itself. Some might argue that the idea of a finite number of plots diminishes the value of individual works, suggesting that all stories are essentially rehashes of a small set of basic narratives. On the other hand, proponents of this concept might argue that the universal appeal of these fundamental plots demonstrates their timeless relevance and power to resonate with audiences across cultures and generations.

In practice, many writers and creators draw inspiration from these fundamental plots while adding their own unique twists, characters, and settings to create fresh and compelling stories. Whether consciously or unconsciously, storytellers often incorporate elements of familiar plots into their work, building on established themes and structures to craft narratives that speak to contemporary audiences.

Ultimately, the idea of limited fundamental plots is a thought-provoking concept that invites reflection on the nature of storytelling, the enduring power of certain narratives, and the ways in which creativity and originality intersect with tradition and familiarity in the world of literature and media. Janette Hospital's quote encapsulates this concept in a succinct and evocative manner, inviting readers to contemplate the cyclical nature of storytelling and the enduring appeal of fundamental plots in the realm of narrative art.