Agree Quote by Ford Madox Ford
“For the judging of contemporary literature the only test is one's personal taste. If you much like a new book, you must call it literature even though you find no other soul to agree with you, and if you dislike a book you must declare that it is not literature though a million voices should shout you that you are wrong. The ultimate decision will be made by Time.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Good Soldier, Ford Madox Ford, 1915
Literary value is judged subjectively; personal preference outweighs consensus, and ultimate judgment rests with history.
In simple terms: Taste decides literature; history judges it.
Key Takeaway
Trust your judgment, but recognize time’s verdict.
Themes
subjectivity
literature
history
Mood
reflective
contemplative
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- book clubs
- personal reviews
- academic curricula
- publishing decisions
Key Concepts
aesthetic judgment
cultural canon
subjective truth
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance personal preference with critical standards?
- Can consensus ever truly define literature?
A Different Perspective
Personal taste may be biased; broader perspectives can reveal hidden merit.
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