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It would be worth the while to select our reading, for…

“It would be worth the while to select our reading, for books are the society we keep; to read only the serenely true; never statistics, nor fiction, nor news, nor reports, nor periodicals, but only great poems, and when they failed, read them again, or perchance write more. Instead of other…” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“It would be worth the while to select our reading, for books are the society we keep; to read only the serenely true; never statistics, nor fiction, nor news, nor reports, nor periodicals, but only great poems, and when they failed, read them again, or perchance write more. Instead of other sacrifice, we might offer up our perfect (teleia) thoughts to the gods daily, in hymns or psalms. For we should be at the helm at least once a day.”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

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

Reading should be selective, focusing on profound poetry and contemplation, offering a daily spiritual practice.

In simple terms: Read great poems daily for spiritual growth.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize deep, reflective reading.

Themes

literature spirituality reflection

Mood

contemplative reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal journaling
  • morning meditation
  • book clubs
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

philosophy poetry daily practice

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can poetry shape your daily thoughts?
  • What rituals help you engage with literature?
A Different Perspective

Neglecting other genres limits perspective.

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