Final answer:
The phrase 'You can't judge a book by its cover' refers to the theme in literature that appearances are often deceptive. Characters in stories may hide their true intentions, similar to how a mechanic 'reads' an engine to see issues not evident to others. Understanding these character 'masks' is part of delving deeper into the narrative.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase 'You can't judge a book by its cover' suggests that appearances can be deceiving, and someone or something may not be what it initially seems. In literature, this is a common theme where characters might wear 'masks' or veil their true identities either literally or figuratively. These disguises can be an essential aspect of the story and contribute to the development of the plot, themes, and characters.
For instance, when examining ways in which people may not be what they seem in a story, it often comes down to characters concealing their true intentions or personalities. This can be for a variety of reasons, like a desire to protect themselves, to manipulate others, or to blend into a certain social setting. Just as the analogy suggests, where the mechanic can 'read' an engine and diagnose issues that are not apparent to the untrained eye, literature can present situations that seem straightforward but have underlying complexities known only to those who have a deeper understanding of the human condition and storytelling mechanisms.
Engaging with literature requires a similar kind of 'reading' beyond the surface, looking for cues and patterns that reveal the deeper truths of the story, much like the biblical book of Revelation or the situation with the mechanic and the car engine. Recognizing when characters are wearing 'masks' helps in understanding the nuances and intricacies that contribute to the narrative's richness and depth.