You are fond of history! And so are Mr. Allen and my…
““You are fond of history! And so are Mr. Allen and my father; and I have two brothers who do not dislike it. So many instances within my small circle of friends is remarkable! At this rate, I shall not pity the writers of history any longer. If people like to read their books, it is all very well, but to be at so much trouble in filling great volumes, which, as I used to think, nobody would willingly ever look into, to be labouring only for the torment of little boys and girls, always struck me as a hard fate; and though I know it is all very right and necessary, I have often wondered at the person's courage that could sit down on purpose to do it.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The narrator sees history as a burdensome task, questioning the value of chronicling events for future readers.
In simple terms: Questioning the purpose of writing history.
Key Takeaway
Consider why you write and who benefits.
Themes
history
writing
purpose
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic research
- writing memoirs
- teaching
- archival work
Key Concepts
epistemology
literary criticism
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we preserve stories?
- What motivates historians despite challenges?
A Different Perspective
Historical narratives can inspire and inform, not just burden.