In the given quote, Thomas McGuane expresses a sentiment about how his perception of Ernest Hemingway changed after people started associating his own writing style with that of Hemingway's. Essentially, McGuane feels that he appreciated Hemingway more before being labeled as someone who writes in a similar manner.
This statement delves deeper into the relationship between an author’s work and public reception. It highlights how external labels or associations can influence one's perspective on both their own creations and those of others they admire. McGuane’s comment suggests that he might have felt constrained by the expectations set forth when people began to see him as "Hemingwayesque." This could imply a sense of being pigeonholed, which might affect his creative freedom or how he perceives Hemingway's legacy. The quote also touches on the idea that sometimes, labels can overshadow the nuanced aspects of an author’s work and identity.
Thomas McGuane is an American novelist, short story writer, essayist, and screenwriter known for blending elements of Western literature with contemporary storytelling. He has been published widely since the 1970s and his works often explore themes such as rural life in Montana, fishing, and fly fishing, which align closely with Hemingway’s style of detailed observation and understated narrative techniques. His unique voice and storytelling skills have earned him significant recognition within literary circles.
