I believe that the phrase ‘obligatory reading’ is a…
![“I believe that the phrase ‘obligatory reading’ is a contradiction in terms; reading should not be obligatory. Should we ever speak of 'obligatory pleasure'? Pleasure is not obligatory, pleasure is something we seek. 'Obligatory happiness'! [...] If a book bores you, leave it; don’t read it because…” quote by Jorge Luis Borges](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/5f6/jorge-luis-borges-275_books_i-believe-that-the-phrase-obligatory-rea_2334935.jpg)
““I believe that the phrase ‘obligatory reading’ is a contradiction in terms; reading should not be obligatory. Should we ever speak of 'obligatory pleasure'? Pleasure is not obligatory, pleasure is something we seek. 'Obligatory happiness'! [...] If a book bores you, leave it; don’t read it because it is famous, don’t read it because it is modern, don’t read a book because it is old. If a book is tedious to you, leave it, even if that book is 'Paradise Lost' — which is not tedious to me — or 'Don Quixote' — which also is not tedious to me. But if a book is tedious to you, don't read it; that book was not written for you. Reading should be a form of happiness, so I would advise all possible readers of my last will and testament—which I do not plan to write— I would advise them to read a lot, and not to get intimidated by writers' reputations, to continue to look for personal happiness, personal enjoyment. It is the only way to read.””
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 a personal joy, not a duty; abandon books that bore you regardless of reputation.
In simple terms: Read for pleasure, not obligation.
Key Takeaway
Choose books that bring you happiness.
Themes
reading
joy
personal choice
Mood
thoughtful
curious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- book clubs
- personal reading lists
- literary criticism
Key Concepts
literary freedom
subjective value
authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a book enjoyable for you?
- How do you balance personal taste with cultural exposure?
A Different Perspective
Rejecting classic works may limit cultural literacy.