In the book "Earthly Powers" by Anthony Burgess, the author reflects on the nature of storytelling versus real life. He suggests that while narratives often seek to uncover deeper reasons and motivations behind actions, real life functions independently of such complexities. This implies that not every action has a profound explanation rooted in psychology or motivation.

Burgess highlights a significant distinction between fiction and reality, emphasizing that life unfolds without the need for elaborate interpretations. This perspective invites readers to appreciate the simplicity and perhaps the randomness of real-life events, contrasting sharply with the structured reasoning often found in literary plots.