Books Quote by Alberto Manguel
“As readers, we have gone from learning a precious craft whose secret was held by a jealous few, to taking for granted a skin that has become subordinate to principles of mindless financial profit or mechanical efficiency, a skill for which governments care almost nothing.”
About This Quote
Source Book: A History of Reading by Alberto Manguel, 1998
The quote laments the loss of reading as a valued, craft-like skill, now reduced to a commodity driven by profit and efficiency, with little governmental support.
In simple terms: Reading once a cherished craft is now a profit‑driven, undervalued skill.
Key Takeaway
Revalue reading beyond economics.
Themes
culture
education
technology
economics
policy
Mood
concerned
reflective
Type
critical
analytical
When to use this quote
- schools
- libraries
- personal development
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
craftsmanship
commodification
public good
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies protect reading as a cultural practice?
- What policies could support literacy beyond profit motives?
A Different Perspective
Reading still requires personal commitment despite market forces.
