Muscle mass gains linear?

[BreezerD]

Forgive me if the nature of this question defies basic logical thinking patterns, but do novice lifters lose the ability to gain muscle mass in a linear fashion as they lose that ability with strength gains? Or will muscle mass gains remain linear, assuming the caloric surplus is sufficient?

Thanks.

[Mark Rippetoe]

If muscle mass gains remained linear, I would weigh 785 lbs. at my same svelte 22% bodyfat.

[titan]

If muscle mass gains remained linear, I would weigh 785 lbs. at my same svelte 22% bodyfat.

22% !!! No wonder your surname is RIPPEToe...

[BreezerD]

But you're only 585lb. Hmm.

Now I feel like the guy who suggested that people simply crapped out excess calories. Damn.