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I am very grateful to the electronic world for making my…

“I am very grateful to the electronic world for making my life easier, but there is something about holding a book - the smell and the world of association. Even when e-books are perfected, as they surely will be, it will be like being in bed with a very well-made robot rather than a warm, soft…” quote by Anne Fadiman
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“I am very grateful to the electronic world for making my life easier, but there is something about holding a book - the smell and the world of association. Even when e-books are perfected, as they surely will be, it will be like being in bed with a very well-made robot rather than a warm, soft, human being whom you love.”

Anne Fadiman

About This Quote

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

The author values physical books for their sensory and emotional richness, which digital formats cannot fully replicate.

In simple terms: Physical books offer a unique, tactile experience.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate both digital convenience and the sensory joy of print.

Themes

sensory experience technology nostalgia reading human connection

Mood

reflective nostalgic thoughtful

Type

observational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • library visits
  • gift giving
  • teaching
  • personal reflection
  • collecting books

Key Concepts

embodiment materiality affect media theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does the tactile feel of a book influence your memory of its content?
  • Can digital reading ever capture the same emotional resonance?
A Different Perspective

Digital media may eventually emulate some aspects but may never fully replace the embodied experience.

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