All literature consists of whatever the writer thinks is cool. The reader will like the book to the degree that he agrees with the writer about what's cool.

In this quote, Steven Brust emphasizes the subjective nature of literature and its connection to the personal tastes of both the writer and the reader. He suggests that every piece of writing is shaped by the writer's own sense of what is cool or interesting. The writer chooses to create based on their own values, ideas, and passions, and the resulting work reflects that individual perspective.

Brust also points out that the reader's enjoyment of a book depends on how much they resonate with the writer’s vision of what’s cool. If the reader shares similar tastes, values, or interests with the writer, they are more likely to enjoy the book. This implies that literature is not only a form of artistic expression but also a personal exchange between the writer and the reader, influenced by their mutual connection to certain themes or ideas.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Brust's perspective as a novelist and a writer within the genre of fantasy and science fiction. Known for his works such as The Vlad Taltos Series, Brust often explores themes of identity, morality, and personal growth in his writing. His view on literature reflects the idea that writing is a deeply personal endeavor, shaped by the writer’s own unique sense of what is interesting or significant.