Book Quote by W. Somerset Maugham
““Some people read for instruction, which is praiseworthy, and some for pleasure, which is innocent, but not a few read from habit, and I suppose that this is neither innocent or praiseworthy. Of that lamentable company am I. Conversation after a time bores me, games tire me and my own thoughts, which we are told are the unfailing resource of a sensible man, have a tendency to run dry. Then I fly to my book as the opium-smoker to his pipe.””
About This Quote
Reading motives range from instruction to habit, with habit reading offering neither moral nor intellectual benefit, leading to mental stagnation.
In simple terms: Reading for habit lacks value.
Key Takeaway
Seek purposeful reading.
Themes
education
habit
mental health
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic study
- leisure reading
- personal development
Key Concepts
literature
cognitive psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your reading choices?
- How can you turn habit reading into growth?
A Different Perspective
Habit reading can still be enjoyable.
