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Book Quote by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

“There is no such thing as a worthless book though there are some far worse than worthless; no book that is not worth preserving, if its existence may be tolerated; as there may be some men whom it may be proper to hang, but none should be suffered to” quote by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
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“There is no such thing as a worthless book though there are some far worse than worthless; no book that is not worth preserving, if its existence may be tolerated; as there may be some men whom it may be proper to hang, but none should be suffered to”

Samuel Taylor Coleridge

About This Quote

Source Essay: Biographia Literaria, 1817

All books have some value; even the worst deserve preservation, though some may be condemned.

In simple terms: Every book holds some worth; some may be condemned.

Key Takeaway

Preserve all works, judge wisely.

Themes

literature preservation value judgment

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • libraries
  • archives
  • academic study
  • personal reading
  • curation

Key Concepts

cultural heritage ethical c literary criticism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What criteria decide a book's worth?
  • How do we balance preservation with moral concerns?
A Different Perspective

Even harmful ideas can influence society if not critically examined.

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