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Book Quote by Mortimer J. Adler

“Marking a book is literally an expression of your differences or your agreements with the author. It is the highest respect you can pay him.” quote by Mortimer J. Adler
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““Marking a book is literally an expression of your differences or your agreements with the author. It is the highest respect you can pay him.””

Mortimer J. Adler

About This Quote

Source Book: How to Read a Book, 1940

Marking a book shows agreement or disagreement, serving as a respectful dialogue with the author.

In simple terms: Annotations express your response to a text.

Key Takeaway

Annotate to engage critically.

Themes

reading dialogue respect

Mood

analytical reflective

Type

educational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • personal note‑taking
  • book clubs

Key Concepts

literary criticism active reading

Questions to Reflect On

  • What do your highlights reveal about you?
  • How can you balance note‑taking with immersion?
A Different Perspective

Over‑annotation can distract from reading.

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