Like everyone else, I have my black list of unfavorite…
““Like everyone else, I have my black list of unfavorite authors and critics, and among intimate friends I sometimes say exactly what I think of them, but I have the feeling that to express my opinions publicly would be in bad taste, that, to people whom one does not know personally, one should speak only of the authors and critics one is fond of. I find reading savage reviews like reading pornography; though I often enjoy them, I feel a bit ashamed of myself for doing so. Still, I must admit that I find Nietzsche's list of his "impracticals" great fun.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author admits a private habit of reading harsh reviews, feeling shame, yet enjoys them, and notes Nietzsche’s “impracticals” as entertaining.
In simple terms: He secretly reads harsh criticism, feels conflicted, but finds some lists amusing.
Key Takeaway
Acknowledge personal biases while maintaining respectful public discourse.
Themes
criticism
privacy
literary taste
ethical selfexpression
Mood
reflective
conflicted
Type
personal essay
literary commentary
When to use this quote
- book clubs
- online review platforms
- academic seminars
- personal journaling
Key Concepts
cognitive dissonance
public vs private self
aesthetic judgment
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you think honesty outweighs courtesy?
- How can you critique constructively?
A Different Perspective
Publicly sharing negative opinions can damage relationships and credibility.