Let us secure not such books as people want, but books…
“Let us secure not such books as people want, but books just above their wants, and they will reach up to take what is put out for them.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Provide literature slightly beyond current desires to inspire aspiration and higher achievement.
In simple terms: Offer books a bit above readers’ wants.
Challenge readers with slightly higher goals.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- school curricula
- public libraries
- reading programs
- personal development
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you gauge the right level of challenge?
- What topics inspire you to reach higher?
Too high a challenge may discourage some readers.