You expect far too much of a first sentence. Think of it as analogous to a good country breakfast: what we want is something simple, but nourishing to the imagination.

The quote "You expect far too much of a first sentence. Think of it as analogous to a good country breakfast: what we want is something simple, but nourishing to the imagination" by Larry McMurtry reflects the author's thoughts on the role of a first sentence in writing. McMurtry suggests that a first sentence doesn’t need to be overly elaborate or impressive; instead, it should be like a good, hearty breakfast—something straightforward yet satisfying. Its main goal is to engage the reader's imagination, offering just enough to spark curiosity and set the tone for what follows without overwhelming or overcomplicating things.

The origin of this quote comes from McMurtry's extensive experience as a novelist and storyteller. As an author known for his works such as Lonesome Dove, McMurtry understood the balance between simplicity and depth in writing. He believed that the first sentence should act as an entry point into the world of the story, not an elaborate statement or grand declaration. Like a country breakfast, it’s intended to be nourishing and uncomplicated, providing the reader with just the right amount of fuel to continue the journey.

In this context, McMurtry emphasizes that the first sentence should not bear the weight of the entire narrative. Instead, it should be something that sets a tone, introduces a small piece of the larger story, and gently guides the reader’s imagination into the unfolding plot. Much like a satisfying meal, it offers substance but does not demand too much attention or expectation. The imagination is allowed to take over, exploring the world the writer is about to unfold.

Ultimately, this quote illustrates McMurtry's view that the first sentence in a story serves a practical yet important function: to nourish the reader’s curiosity and set the stage for the journey ahead. It doesn’t have to be groundbreaking or overly complex—it should simply provide a gentle, intriguing start, much like a nourishing country breakfast that prepares one for the day ahead.