Books Quote by Robertson Davies
““So -- I confess I have been a rake at reading. I have read those things which I ought not to have read, and I have not read those things which I ought to have read, and there is no health in me -- if by health you mean an inclusive and coherent knowledge of any body of great literature. I can only protest, like all rakes in their shameful senescence, that I have had a good time.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Fifth Business, 1970
The speaker admits to reading for pleasure rather than for comprehensive literary knowledge, acknowledging a lack of disciplined study while enjoying the experience.
In simple terms: Enjoyed reading but missed systematic learning.
Key Takeaway
Balance pleasure reading with purposeful study.
Themes
reading
literature
self-awareness
Mood
reflective
honest
Type
personal
literary
When to use this quote
- college coursework
- self-education
- book clubs
- personal development
- literary criticism
Key Concepts
rake metaphor
knowledge gaps
personal growth
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you integrate enjoyable reading with essential learning?
- What steps will you take to broaden your literary knowledge?
A Different Perspective
Pleasure reading may limit depth of understanding.
