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Books Quote by Edith Wharton

“Real reading is reflex action; the born reader reads as unconsciously as he breathes; and, to carry the analogy a degree farther, reading is no more a virtue than breathing.” quote by Edith Wharton
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““Real reading is reflex action; the born reader reads as unconsciously as he breathes; and, to carry the analogy a degree farther, reading is no more a virtue than breathing.””

Edith Wharton

About This Quote

Source Essay: Essays in Biography, 1905

Reading is an automatic, essential habit, like breathing, not a moral virtue.

In simple terms: Reading is natural, not a moral act.

Key Takeaway

Treat reading as a daily habit.

Themes

habit learning naturalness

Mood

thoughtful neutral

Type

observational reflective

When to use this quote

  • education
  • personal development
  • literacy improvement

Key Concepts

cognitive psychology automaticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you read for pleasure or duty?
  • How can you make reading more reflective?
A Different Perspective

Reading alone does not guarantee critical thinking.

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