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Dear Sir: Yours of the 24th. asking 'the best mode of…

“Dear Sir: Yours of the 24th. asking 'the best mode of obtaining a thorough knowledge of the law' is received. The mode is very simple, though laborious, and tedious. It is only to get the books, and read, and study them carefully. Begin with Blackstone's Commentaries, and after reading it…” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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“Dear Sir: Yours of the 24th. asking 'the best mode of obtaining a thorough knowledge of the law' is received. The mode is very simple, though laborious, and tedious. It is only to get the books, and read, and study them carefully. Begin with Blackstone's Commentaries, and after reading it carefully through, say twice, take up Chitty's Pleading, Greenleaf's Evidence, & Story's Equity &c. in succession. Work, work, work, is the main thing.”

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Intensive, systematic reading of foundational legal texts is essential for deep mastery, despite the process being tedious and demanding.

In simple terms: Read core law books thoroughly, despite the effort.

Key Takeaway

Commit to disciplined, exhaustive study.

Themes

law study discipline mastery hard work

Mood

determined focused

Type

advisory practical

When to use this quote

  • law school
  • self‑study
  • preparing for legal practice
  • overcoming study fatigue

Key Concepts

legal education methodical learning perseverance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance thoroughness with efficiency?
  • What modern tools could complement traditional study?
A Different Perspective

The approach may ignore modern resources or alternative learning methods that could be more efficient.

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