ON THE RETURN OF A BOOK LENT TO A FRIEND I GIVE humble and…
““ON THE RETURN OF A BOOK LENT TO A FRIEND I GIVE humble and hearty thanks for the safe return of this book which having endured the perils of my friend's bookcase, and the bookcases of my friend's friends, now returns to me in reasonably good condition. I GIVE humble and hearty thanks that my friend did not see fit to give this book to his infant as a plaything, nor use it as an ash-tray for his burning cigar, nor as a teething-ring for his mastiff. WHEN I lent this book I deemed it as lost: I was resigned to the bitterness of the long parting: I never thought to look upon its pages again. BUT NOW that my book is come back to me, I rejoice and am exceeding glad! Bring hither the fatted morocco and let us rebind the volume and set it on the shelf of honour: for this my book was lent, and is returned again. PRESENTLY, therefore, I may return some of the books that I myself have borrowed.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Returning a cherished book after many trials highlights gratitude, respect for shared objects, and the joy of reunion.
In simple terms: Appreciate returned books.
Key Takeaway
Value and thank those who return what you lend.
Themes
gratitude
friendship
material culture
Mood
reflective
warm
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- library borrowing
- gift exchange
- personal belongings
- archiving
Key Concepts
reciprocity
respect for objects
Questions to Reflect On
- What does this story teach about caring for shared items?
- How do you express thanks for a favor?
A Different Perspective
Objects can be damaged despite care.