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Book Quote by Samuel Johnson

“Many useful and valuable books lie buried in shops and libraries, unknown and unexamined, unless some lucky compiler opens them by chance, and finds an easy spoil of wit and learning.” quote by Samuel Johnson
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“Many useful and valuable books lie buried in shops and libraries, unknown and unexamined, unless some lucky compiler opens them by chance, and finds an easy spoil of wit and learning.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Idler, 1759

Valuable books often remain unnoticed until someone discovers them, revealing hidden wisdom.

In simple terms: Books hide knowledge until found.

Key Takeaway

Seek out overlooked works.

Themes

knowledge discovery literature

Mood

curious reflective

Type

inspirational literary

When to use this quote

  • library browsing
  • secondhand book shopping
  • research
  • academic study

Key Concepts

cultural heritage intellectual curiosity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What books have you overlooked?
  • How do you decide which works to explore?
A Different Perspective

Not all hidden books are valuable; personal taste varies.

4.8 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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