The quote from Margaret Atwood's "Negotiating with the Dead" humorously suggests that having a fascination with an author's work does not necessarily translate to a desire to connect with the author personally. Just as one might enjoy duck pâté without a desire to meet a duck, appreciating literature doesn't imply a need for an author’s personal interaction. This analogy captures the distinction between enjoying creative expression and engaging with the creator.

This perspective highlights the complexities of fandom and the boundaries that exist between art and artist. While readers can form deep connections with the narratives crafted by authors, those relationships are often one-sided. The enjoyment of an author's work can be fulfilling on its own, allowing readers to appreciate the art without needing to delve into the personal lives of its creators.