A good story is {a} kind of irritant. You read it, then you cannot stop thinking about it. Eventually, your mind and heart encyst about it, and what occurs is a pearl of the soul.
In her book "Take Joy: A Writer's Guide to Loving the Craft," Jane Yolen expresses the idea that a truly compelling story acts as a catalyst for reflection and contemplation. When you engage with a good story, it leaves a lasting impression, prompting you to think about its themes, characters, and messages long after you've finished reading. This process engages both the mind and heart, making the experience more profound.
As Yolen elaborates, the impact of a captivating story is akin to an irritant that inspires growth within the reader. Over time, this engagement fosters deeper insights and emotional connections, ultimately leading to the creation of what she describes as a "pearl of the soul." This metaphor highlights the transformative power of storytelling, illustrating how it can shape our inner lives and illuminate our experiences.
