Amazon Quote by Ray Bradbury
“(in response to the question: what do you think of e-books and Amazon’s Kindle?) Those aren’t books. You can’t hold a computer in your hand like you can a book. A computer does not smell. There are two perfumes to a book. If a book is new, it smells great. If a book is old, it smells even better. It smells like ancient Egypt. A book has got to smell. You have to hold it in your hands and pray to it. You put it in your pocket and you walk with it. And it stays with you forever. But the computer doesn’t do that for you. I’m sorry.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Book vs. e‑book debate, 1990s
Physical books engage senses and memory in ways digital devices cannot, fostering deeper connection.
In simple terms: Books smell and feel, creating lasting personal bonds.
Key Takeaway
Cherish tactile reading experiences.
Themes
sensory
nostalgia
memory
technology
literature
Mood
sentimental
thoughtful
Type
reflective
inspirational
When to use this quote
- library visits
- gift giving
- personal study habits
Key Concepts
embodiment
experience
human connection
Questions to Reflect On
- What sensory aspects of reading matter most to you?
- Can digital books ever replicate the emotional weight of a physical copy?
A Different Perspective
Digital formats offer convenience that may outweigh sensory loss for some.
