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I certainly think that the best book in the world would…

“I certainly think that the best book in the world would owe the most to a good index, and the worst book, if it had but a single good thought in it, might be kept alive by it.” quote by Horace Binney Wallace
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“I certainly think that the best book in the world would owe the most to a good index, and the worst book, if it had but a single good thought in it, might be kept alive by it.”

Horace Binney Wallace

About This Quote

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

A well‑structured index or a single powerful idea can sustain a book’s relevance, while poor structure diminishes it.

In simple terms: Indexes or strong ideas keep books alive.

Key Takeaway

Focus on clear organization and core ideas.

Themes

literature structure ideas clarity

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

literary educational

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • editing
  • publishing
  • academic research

Key Concepts

information science literary criticism philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does an index shape reader understanding?
  • What makes an idea “good” enough to sustain a work?
A Different Perspective

Relying solely on a single idea may oversimplify complex works.

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