In the book "Between the Lines" by Jodi Picoult, the notion of storytelling is explored deeply. The quote highlights that labeling a narrative as a "story" imposes a rigid structure on it, characterized by a defined beginning, middle, and end. This structured format suggests that once the story is established, any alterations made to it can fundamentally change its essence.

The implication is that stories carry a sense of permanence; they convey specific themes and messages that are tied to their original form. Consequently, if a narrative is modified, it loses its original narrative identity, reminding readers of the importance of how stories are told and understood.