Best self Quote by George Saunders
![“[In the moment of reading writer and reader] are both briefly their best selves, or at least better selves. A flawed human being writes something and 60 years later a reader picks up the book and something in them rises to meet it.” quote by George Saunders](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/538/george-saunders-317_best-self_in-the-moment-of-reading-writer-and-read_1635082.jpg)
“[In the moment of reading writer and reader] are both briefly their best selves, or at least better selves. A flawed human being writes something and 60 years later a reader picks up the book and something in them rises to meet it.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Moment of Reading, George Saunders, 2012
Reading creates a fleeting alignment between writer and reader, allowing both to embody higher versions of themselves.
In simple terms: Reading briefly elevates both writer and reader.
Key Takeaway
Seek moments that inspire mutual growth.
Themes
literature
connection
self‑improvement
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
inspirational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- book clubs
- creative writing workshops
- personal reflection
- teaching literature
Key Concepts
empathy
transcendence
temporality
Questions to Reflect On
- How does a shared story change you?
- What makes a reading moment transformative?
A Different Perspective
The effect may be brief and not all readers experience it.
