Appreciation Quote by David Nicholls
“Of course you should study whatever you want. The written appreciation and understanding of literature, or any kind of artistic endeavour, is absolutely central to a decent society. Why d'you think books are the first things that the fascists burn?”
About This Quote
Source Book: The History of Literature, 2020
Literature and art are essential for a healthy society and are targeted by oppressive regimes.
In simple terms: Art sustains civilization; tyrants fear it.
Protect and promote the arts.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- schools
- public libraries
- community centers
- policy debates
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies fund the arts amid fiscal constraints?
- What role does literature play in resisting authoritarianism?
Even with strong cultural values, economic pressures can marginalize the arts.