Books Quote by Jeffrey Eugenides
“I studied English literature in the honors program, which means that you had to take courses in various centuries. You had to start with Old English, Middle English, and work your way toward the modern. I figured if I did that it would force me to read some of the things I might not read on my own.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New Yorker, "The Art of Reading", 2015
Studying literature chronologically pushes readers to engage with unfamiliar periods, broadening perspective and appreciation.
In simple terms: Reading older works expands view.
Read widely across eras.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- University courses
- self‑directed reading
- book clubs
- academic research
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does confronting unfamiliar texts reshape your tastes?
- What benefits arise from disciplined exposure?
May still feel forced, limiting genuine interest.