Ambitious Quote by Gustave Flaubert
“Do not read, as children do, to amuse yourself, or like the ambitious, for the purpose of instruction. No, read in order to live.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: On Reading, 1865
Reading should be an immersive, life‑affirming experience, not merely a pastime or instruction.
In simple terms: Read to live fully, not just for fun or learning.
Engage deeply with texts to enrich life.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- classroom
- personal study
- travel
- reflection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does reading change your perspective?
- What books have reshaped your life?
Some readers may find deep immersion overwhelming or time‑consuming.