Nothing is more durable than the dynasty of Doubt; for he reigns in the hearts of all his people, but gives satisfaction to none of them, and yet he is the only despot who can never die, while any of his subjects live.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
Some read to think, these are rare; some to write, these are common; and some read to talk, and these form the great majority.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote distinguishes between the various purposes of reading, highlighting that true thinkers are rare, while many read merely for social interaction.
Charles Caleb Colton’s quote illustrates the different motivations behind why individuals engage with written texts. It suggests that while a few readers approach books with the intent to deepen their understanding and thought processes, the majority of readers do so for more superficial reasons, such as to facilitate conversation or to simply consume content without critical engagement. This distinction prompts reflection on our own motivations for reading and the value of seeking knowledge.
Themes
ReadingThinkingWritingCommunicationKnowledge
In practice
Example use cases
In a book club discussion, to emphasize the importance of reading for critical thinking.
More from Charles Caleb Colton
All quotes →It is astonishing how much more people are interested in lengthening life than improving it.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
The benevolent have the advantage of the envious, even in this present life; for the envious man is tormented not only by all the ill that befalls himself, but by all the good that happens to another; whereas the benevolent man is the better prepared to bear his own calamities unruffled, from the complacency and serenity he has secured from contemplating the prosperity of all around him.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
Happiness, that grand mistress of the ceremonies in the dance of life, impels us through all its mazes and meanderings, but leads none of us by the same route.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
Our minds are as different as our faces. We are all traveling to one destination: happiness, but few are going by the same road.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
Moderation is the inseparable companion of wisdom, but with it genius has not even a nodding acquaintance.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
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