Book Quote by Hilton Als
“I really don't think we should dismiss a book because we feel messed about intellectually. Or emotionally. That's the writer's job!”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New Yorker, Hilton Als, 2020
Books should be judged on their ideas, not on personal discomfort; confronting challenging ideas is part of reading.
In simple terms: Judge books by ideas, not feelings.
Key Takeaway
Read beyond comfort zones.
Themes
literature
intellectual honesty
emotional response
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
critical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- book clubs
- academic courses
- personal reading
Key Concepts
critical thinking
authorial intent
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a book worth reading despite unease?
- How can we separate author intent from personal reaction?
A Different Perspective
Discomfort may deter readers.
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