Book Quote by Neil Postman
![“A book is an attempt to make through permanent and to contribute to the great conversation conducted by authors of the past. […] The telegraph is suited only to the flashing of messages, each to be quickly replaced by a more up-to-date message. Facts push other facts into and then out of…” quote by Neil Postman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/395/neil-postman-1598_book_a-book-is-an-attempt-to-make-through-per_3096657.jpg)
“A book is an attempt to make through permanent and to contribute to the great conversation conducted by authors of the past. […] The telegraph is suited only to the flashing of messages, each to be quickly replaced by a more up-to-date message. Facts push other facts into and then out of consciousness at speeds that neither permit nor require evaluation. (70)”
About This Quote
Source Book: Amusing Ourselves to Death, Neil Postman, 1985
The quote contrasts the fleeting nature of modern media with the enduring, dialogic nature of books, emphasizing that books foster lasting conversation while media promote rapid, replaceable facts.
In simple terms: Books create lasting dialogue; media give quick facts.
Key Takeaway
Value deep, lasting ideas over fleeting news.
Themes
communication
media
history
conversation
knowledge
legacy
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- education
- writing
- publishing
- media criticism
Key Concepts
cultural memory
information overload
public discourse
literary tradition
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance quick information with lasting insight?
- What role should books play in a fast‑paced media world?
A Different Perspective
Rapid media can overwhelm thoughtful reflection and deep understanding.
