Book Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“It is remarkable, but on the whole, perhaps, not to be lamented, that the world is so unkind to a new book. Any distinguished traveler who comes to our shores is likely to get more dinners and speeches of welcome than he can well dispose of, but the best books, if noticed at all, meet with coldness and suspicion, or, what is worse, gratuitous, off-hand criticism.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The American Scholar”, 1837
New ideas often face hostility while familiar figures receive hospitality, highlighting society’s resistance to novelty.
In simple terms: New books get cold reception, familiar guests get warm welcome.
Key Takeaway
Embrace and promote fresh ideas despite initial resistance.
Themes
novelty
reception
culture
criticism
hospitality
Mood
reflective
critical
hopeful
Type
observational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- publishing
- academic conferences
- literary reviews
- public speaking
Key Concepts
conformity
social dynamics
intellectual resistance
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we better support emerging voices?
- What biases cause us to favor the familiar?
A Different Perspective
Even with criticism, some new works can gain acceptance over time.
