Books Quote by Wilkie Collins
““You are not to take it, if you please, as the saying of an ignorant man, when I express my opinion that such a book as ROBINSON CRUSOE never was written, and never will be written again. I have tried that book for years—generally in combination with a pipe of tobacco—and I have found it my friend in need in all the necessities of this mortal life. When my spirits are bad—ROBINSON CRUSOE. When I want advice—ROBINSON CRUSOE. In past times when my wife plagued me; in present times when I have had a drop too much—ROBINSON CRUSOE. I have worn out six stout ROBINSON CRUSOES with hard work in my service. On my lady's last birthday she gave me a seventh. I took a drop too much on the strength of it; and ROBINSON CRUSOE put me right again. Price four shillings and sixpence, bound in blue, with a picture into the bargain. ””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins, 1868
The speaker humorously treats a book about Robinson Crusoe as a cure‑all for life's problems, highlighting reliance on escapist literature.
In simple terms: He sees the book as a universal remedy.
Key Takeaway
Don't over‑rely on fiction for solutions.
Themes
escapism
literature
comfort
Mood
wry
humorous
Type
satire
observational
When to use this quote
- stress relief
- seeking guidance
- coping with loss
Key Concepts
fiction as therapy
nostalgia
habitual reading
Questions to Reflect On
- What real solutions do you need?
- How can you balance reading with action?
A Different Perspective
Fiction cannot replace real support.
