For the truth is, there are times when we are too weary to…
““For the truth is, there are times when we are too weary to remain attentive and thankful under the improving eye, kindly but severe, of the seers. There are times when we do not wish to be any better than we are. We do not wish to be elevated and improved. At midnight, away with such books! As for the literary pundits, the high priests of the Temple of Letters, it is interesting and helpful occasionally for an acolyte to swinge them a good hard one with an incense-burner, and cut and run, for a change, to something outside the rubrics. Midnight is the time when one can recall, with ribald delight, the names of all the Great Works which every gentleman ought to have read, but which some of us have not.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage laments human fatigue and resistance to self-improvement, urging a midnight rebellion against literary pretensions and a return to genuine reading.
In simple terms: People often resist growth and cling to pretentious habits.
Key Takeaway
Break free from complacency and explore authentic works.
Themes
fatigue
self-improvement
literary rebellion
Mood
reflective
defiant
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- nighttime reflection
- reading habits
- intellectual honesty
Key Concepts
existential weariness
cultural critique
personal growth
Questions to Reflect On
- What books have you avoided?
- How can you rekindle curiosity?
A Different Perspective
Complacency can hinder true learning.