" I think it took me half a page of ‘Wolf Hall’ to think: ‘This is the novel I should have been writing all along.’ "
- Hilary Mantel

When Hilary Mantel read "Wolf Hall" by British author Hilary Mantel herself, she realized that this novel encapsulated what she believed her own writing should have been about all along. This insight suggests a profound moment of recognition and self-reflection, where an established writer finds inspiration in another's work to reassess their own artistic direction.

At its core, the quote speaks to the transformative power of literature in shaping one’s creative identity and vision. It highlights how encountering certain works can serve as catalysts for introspection, encouraging authors to consider what themes and styles truly resonate with them. This moment of epiphany is not just about recognizing an author's strengths but also about understanding personal literary aspirations that might have been overlooked or underexplored previously.

Hilary Mantel is a renowned British novelist known for her historical fiction series set during the Tudor period in England, particularly focusing on Thomas Cromwell. Her recognition of "Wolf Hall" as emblematic of her true writing voice underscores her commitment to authenticity and depth in storytelling.