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Books Quote by Simon Garfield

“These days, digitization enables us to view the copies [of the Gutenberg Bible] online without the need for a trip to the Euston Road, although to do so would be to deny oneself one of the great pleasures in life. The first book ever printed in Europe - heavy, luxurious, pungent and creaky - does…” quote by Simon Garfield
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““These days, digitization enables us to view the copies [of the Gutenberg Bible] online without the need for a trip to the Euston Road, although to do so would be to deny oneself one of the great pleasures in life. The first book ever printed in Europe - heavy, luxurious, pungent and creaky - does not read particularly well on an iPhone.””

Simon Garfield

About This Quote

Source Article: The Book of Books, 2015

Digital copies of historic books lose the sensory experience that makes them uniquely valuable.

In simple terms: Online versions lack the physical charm of originals.

Key Takeaway

Value the tactile experience of rare books.

Themes

history technology sensory experience

Mood

nostalgic analytical

Type

cultural observational

When to use this quote

  • library visits
  • book collecting
  • academic research

Key Concepts

media studies material culture digital vs analog

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does format affect your appreciation?
  • Can virtual experiences replace physical ones?
A Different Perspective

Digital access can democratize knowledge.

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