Far too many relied on the classic formula of a beginning, a muddle, and an end.
Source: Referring to modern novels; New Fiction, 15 Jan 1978.
-- Philip Larkin, (Aug 9 1922-1985), English poet, author, librarian; He gave expression to a clipped, antiromantic sensibility prevalent in English verse; wrote Jill, 1940 and High Windows, 1974.