Book Quote by Michel de Montaigne
“There is more ado to interpret interpretations than to interpret things, and more books upon books than upon any other subject; we do nothing but comment upon one another. Every place swarms with commentaries; of authors there is great scarcity.”
About This Quote
Interpretations proliferate while original works are scarce, leading to endless commentary.
In simple terms: Commentary outweighs original works.
Key Takeaway
Seek original sources over endless commentary.
Themes
interpretation
scarcity
commentary
Mood
analytical
curious
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education
- research
- academic writing
Key Concepts
literary criticism
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we over‑comment?
- How can we value original thought?
A Different Perspective
Original works may be lost or inaccessible.
