Meaning: The quote by Evan Hunter, also known as Ed McBain, captures the essence of the writer-reader relationship. It reflects the idea that the ultimate purpose of writing is to engage and connect with readers. By acknowledging the centrality of readers in the writing process, Hunter underscores the significance of their role in shaping the writer's work and the importance of their experience in the consumption of literature.

Writing is an act of communication, a bridge that connects the thoughts and emotions of the writer with the perceptions and interpretations of the reader. Without readers, the act of writing would lose its purpose and significance. Writers seek to convey their ideas, stories, and messages to an audience, and readers are the ones who receive, interpret, and engage with the written material. In this sense, the relationship between writers and readers is inherently symbiotic, with each being essential to the existence and impact of the other.

When Evan Hunter poses the question, "Readers are what it's all about, aren't they? If not, why am I writing?", he prompts reflection on the fundamental motivation behind the act of writing. It serves as a reminder to writers that their work is ultimately intended for an audience, and that the readers' experience should be at the forefront of their creative process. The quote challenges writers to consider the impact and relevance of their writing in the lives of their readers, emphasizing the significance of creating meaningful and engaging content that resonates with its audience.

Moreover, the quote highlights the sense of purpose that readers bring to the act of writing. Writers are driven by the desire to share their ideas and stories with others, and readers provide the validation and fulfillment of this endeavor. The satisfaction of knowing that one's writing has engaged, entertained, or enlightened a reader is a powerful motivator for many writers. It reinforces the idea that writing is a form of expression and connection, and that readers play a crucial role in completing the cycle of communication and understanding.

In a broader context, the quote also underscores the democratic nature of literature. It acknowledges the equal importance of both the writer and the reader in the literary process, rejecting the notion of writing as a one-sided, self-indulgent endeavor. Instead, it promotes the idea of writing as an invitation to dialogue, an opportunity for writers to share their perspectives and for readers to engage with, critique, and internalize those perspectives.

Ultimately, Evan Hunter's quote encapsulates the reciprocal relationship between writers and readers, highlighting the essential role that readers play in giving meaning and purpose to the act of writing. It serves as a poignant reminder to writers that their work is ultimately intended for an audience, and that the readers' experience should be a guiding force in shaping their writing. By acknowledging and honoring the significance of readers, writers can create work that is not only personally meaningful but also resonant and impactful for its audience.