Books Quote by W. Somerset Maugham
““A sensible person does not read a novel as a task. He reads it as a diversion. He is prepared to interest himself in the characters and is concerned to see how they act in given circumstances, and what happens to them; he sympathizes with their troubles and is gladdened by their joys; he puts himself in their place and, to an extent, lives their lives. Their view of life, their attitude to the great subjects of human speculation, whether stated in words or shown in action, call forth in him a reaction of surprise, of pleasure or of indignation. But he knows instinctively where his interest lies and he follows it as surely as a hound follows the scent of a fox. Sometimes, through the author's failure, he loses the scent. Then he flounders about till he finds it again. He skips.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Art of Reading, 1925
Reading should be an immersive, empathetic experience, not a chore; it engages us emotionally and intellectually, shaping our reactions.
In simple terms: Read for immersion, not duty.
Key Takeaway
Read deeply, feel characters, learn.
Themes
empathy
literature
engagement
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- book clubs
- education
- personal growth
- creative writing
- therapy
Key Concepts
narrative theory
psychology
critical reading
Questions to Reflect On
- How does reading affect your view of life?
- What emotions do you most connect with in stories?
A Different Perspective
Some readers may miss deeper meanings without guidance.
