Read not to contradict and confute; nor to believe and…
“Read not to contradict and confute; nor to believe and take for granted; nor to find talk and discourse; but to weigh and consider. Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested: that is, some books are to be read only in parts, others to be read, but not curiously, and some few to be read wholly, and with diligence and attention.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Advocates selective reading: some works for pleasure, some for deep study, some for both.
In simple terms: Read wisely, not all at once.
Key Takeaway
Choose reading purposefully.
Themes
learning
reading
wisdom
Mood
analytical
instructive
Type
essay
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic study
- personal growth
- literary analysis
Key Concepts
critical thinking
knowledge acquisition
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you decide what to read fully?
- When is skim reading appropriate?
A Different Perspective
Over‑analysis can hinder enjoyment.