The idea of writer as sage is pretty much dead today. I would certainly feel very uncomfortable in the role

The idea of writer as sage is pretty much dead today. I would certainly feel very uncomfortable in the role

The idea of the writer as a sage, a wise and all-knowing figure whose words hold profound truths and insights, has long been a romanticized notion in literature. Writers like J.M. Coetzee, with his thought-provoking and often morally complex works, have been seen as modern-day sages, offering readers a glimpse into the human condition and challenging societal norms and beliefs. However, in today's fast-paced and ever-changing world, the idea of the writer as sage is becoming increasingly outdated and perhaps even irrelevant.

J.M. Coetzee himself has expressed discomfort with the idea of being seen as a sage. In an interview with The Paris Review, he stated, "I would certainly feel very uncomfortable in the role." Coetzee's reluctance to embrace the role of sage is perhaps a reflection of the changing nature of literature and the role of the writer in society. In a world where information is constantly being disseminated and opinions are readily available at the click of a button, the idea of a single individual holding all the answers and wisdom seems outdated.

Furthermore, the idea of the writer as sage can be problematic in that it places an undue burden on the writer to provide answers and solutions to complex societal issues. Writers like Coetzee often grapple with difficult and morally ambiguous themes in their work, and expecting them to have all the answers can be unfair and unrealistic. Coetzee himself has stated that he does not see himself as a moral authority, but rather as a storyteller who raises questions and challenges readers to think critically about the world around them.