Meaning: This quote by Thomas Keneally, the acclaimed Australian novelist best known for his book "Schindler's Ark," speaks to the inherent differences between writing a novel and crafting a screenplay. Keneally's words caution against the common practice of authors writing with the sole aim of adapting their work for the screen. The quote suggests that attempting to create a novel with a screen adaptation in mind can be misguided and potentially detrimental to the artistic integrity of the work.

Keneally's remark underscores the distinct nature of these two forms of storytelling. A novel allows for in-depth exploration of characters' thoughts, emotions, and motivations. It often delves into intricate descriptions of settings and internal monologues, offering a rich and immersive experience for the reader. On the other hand, a screenplay is a blueprint for a visual and auditory experience, relying on dialogue, action, and visual cues to convey the story within a limited time frame.

When an author sets out to write a novel with the primary goal of securing a screen adaptation, there is a risk that the storytelling may become compromised. The focus may shift toward creating scenes that are visually striking or conducive to cinematic adaptation, rather than fully developing the narrative and characters in a way that resonates with readers on the page.

Furthermore, the quote suggests that approaching the writing process with a predetermined screen contract may place constraints on the creative freedom of the author. In an effort to align with the perceived requirements of the screen, the novel's potential for literary depth and complexity could be sacrificed.

It's important to recognize that while some novels successfully transition to the screen, the adaptation process often involves significant alterations to the original work. The medium of film or television necessitates different storytelling techniques and pacing, and what works effectively in a novel may not always translate seamlessly to the screen.

Keneally's perspective invites reflection on the essence of storytelling and the intrinsic qualities that distinguish novels from screenplays. By emphasizing the folly of crafting a novel with a screen adaptation as the primary objective, he encourages writers to honor the integrity of each form and to prioritize the authenticity of their creative expression.

In conclusion, Thomas Keneally's quote serves as a reminder of the distinctive qualities of novels and screenplays, cautioning against the pitfalls of prioritizing a screen adaptation during the novel-writing process. It encourages authors to embrace the unique strengths of each medium and to approach their craft with a commitment to artistic integrity and narrative depth. Ultimately, Keneally's words prompt writers to cherish the art of storytelling in its purest form, whether on the page or the screen.