Meaning: Guillermo Infante, a renowned novelist, once stated, "I have assiduously avoided calling my books novels." This intriguing statement offers insight into Infante's perspective on his literary works and raises questions about the conventional classification of literature.

Infante's choice to avoid labeling his works as novels suggests that he may have a distinct approach to storytelling that diverges from traditional narrative structures. By distancing himself from the term "novel," he may be signaling a departure from the expectations and conventions associated with this genre. This decision prompts readers and critics to reconsider the boundaries and definitions of what constitutes a novel and challenges the established norms of literary categorization.

The term "assiduously" in Infante's statement implies a deliberate and conscientious effort to refrain from using the label of "novels" for his books. This deliberate choice suggests that Infante may be seeking to carve out a unique literary identity that defies easy classification. It also indicates a level of intentionality in his approach to distancing his works from the traditional novel genre, hinting at a desire to transcend or subvert established literary conventions.

Infante's statement raises the question of what alternative classification or designation he might prefer for his works. By explicitly rejecting the label of "novels," he invites readers and critics to consider how his works might be more accurately characterized. This rejection of traditional genre labels encourages a deeper exploration of the thematic, structural, and stylistic elements that define his writing, prompting a more nuanced understanding of his literary contributions.

Additionally, Infante's statement may reflect a broader dissatisfaction with the constraints and expectations associated with the novel as a genre. He may be signaling a desire to break free from the limitations and preconceptions that come with the label of "novel," indicating a commitment to forging a more expansive and unconventional literary path.

In the context of literary theory and criticism, Infante's statement invites a critical reevaluation of the boundaries and definitions of the novel as a genre. It prompts scholars and analysts to consider the fluidity and multiplicity of literary forms, challenging the notion that all narrative prose fiction must fit neatly within the framework of the novel. This reexamination of genre boundaries encourages a more open-minded and inclusive approach to interpreting and appreciating diverse forms of literary expression.

Furthermore, Infante's statement may also be seen as a deliberate act of literary provocation, intended to spark dialogue and debate about the nature of storytelling and the role of genre classifications in shaping readers' perceptions. By refusing to categorize his works as novels, he disrupts conventional expectations and encourages readers to engage with his writing on its own terms, free from preconceived notions about what a novel should be.

In conclusion, Guillermo Infante's statement, "I have assiduously avoided calling my books novels," serves as a thought-provoking declaration that challenges traditional notions of genre and invites a reevaluation of the boundaries and definitions of the novel. It reflects a deliberate and conscientious effort to resist easy categorization and prompts readers, critics, and scholars to engage in a more nuanced exploration of his literary works. Infante's stance opens up new possibilities for understanding and appreciating the diversity of literary expression, emphasizing the fluidity and complexity of storytelling beyond the constraints of established genres.