Skip to content

I am not usually such a sluggard," he said, as we walked…

“I am not usually such a sluggard," he said, as we walked quickly along the street, "but yesterday evening I got a novel. I ought not to read novels. When I do, I am apt to make a single mouthful of it; and that is what I did last night. I started the book at nine and finished it at two this…” quote by R. Austin Freeman
Download Open image
““I am not usually such a sluggard," he said, as we walked quickly along the street, "but yesterday evening I got a novel. I ought not to read novels. When I do, I am apt to make a single mouthful of it; and that is what I did last night. I started the book at nine and finished it at two this morning; and the result is that I am as sleepy as an owl even now.””

R. Austin Freeman

About This Quote

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

He admits to a compulsive habit of binge-reading novels, leading to exhaustion.

In simple terms: He reads a novel quickly and becomes very sleepy.

Key Takeaway

Balance reading pace with rest.

Themes

habits self‑control literature

Mood

reflective humorous

Type

literary personal

When to use this quote

  • late‑night reading
  • study sessions
  • creative writing
  • relaxation

Key Concepts

compulsive behavior time management sleep deprivation

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you set limits on reading sessions?
  • How does sleep affect your focus?
A Different Perspective

Rapid reading can impair comprehension and health.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by R. Austin Freeman

Explore all 6 R. Austin Freeman quotes

More Books quotes

Browse all 59,485 Books quotes