Good books, like good friends, are few and chosen; the more select, the more enjoyable.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote speaks to the value of quality over quantity. Just like a good book that captures your imagination, enriches your knowledge, and speaks to your soul, true friends are rare treasures. They can be counted on to be there for you, to challenge you, and to share in the joys and sorrows of life. The essence of the quote lies in the deliberate selection, suggesting that we must be discerning in our choices. It is not about having a vast library of books or a large circle of acquaintances. Rather, it's about finding those few books that deeply resonate with us and a small circle of friends who truly understand and support us. These select choices, the quote suggests, offer a greater depth of enjoyment and fulfillment because they have been carefully chosen and nurtured, much like a well-tended garden that brings more joy than an expansive, yet neglected, field.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Good books, like good friends, are few and chosen; the more select, the more enjoyable." was said by Louisa May Alcott (Bio / Quotes). Louisa May Alcott was an American author who is best known for her novel "Little Women.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
One historical example that vividly illustrates the quote, "Good books, like good friends, are few and chosen; the more select, the more enjoyable," is the relationship between the writer F. Scott Fitzgerald and his works, particularly "The Great Gatsby."
Fitzgerald’s writing process and the reception of his work provide a clear illustration of the quote's message. In the early 20th century, Fitzgerald crafted a novel that he considered to be a high watermark of his literary abilities. "The Great Gatsby," published in 1925, was not an immediate commercial success. However, over time, it became a highly selective classic—cherished by literary critics and readers alike. Its intricate portrayal of the American Dream, combined with Fitzgerald's masterful prose, made it a rare gem among the numerous books of its time.
The initial lack of widespread acclaim for "The Great Gatsby" underscores the quote's notion that truly great books, like treasured friends, are not abundant but are rather exceptional and carefully chosen. The book’s eventual rise to classic status reflects its unique and select nature, which has led to its enduring enjoyment by readers across generations. Just as one might treasure a few, deeply impactful friendships over a large number of casual acquaintances, so too do readers come to appreciate a select few books that resonate deeply with them.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
In real life, the quote "Good books, like good friends, are few and chosen; the more select, the more enjoyable" can be applied to how we approach both our reading habits and our personal relationships.
For reading habits, this quote encourages a focus on quality over quantity. Instead of trying to read as many books as possible, it suggests that we should be selective and intentional about the books we choose to engage with. By focusing on fewer, high-quality books—those that offer deep insights, resonate with our personal experiences, or challenge our thinking—we can derive more meaningful and enriching experiences from our reading. For instance, rather than rushing through a large number of books, investing time in a few well-chosen classics or books that truly speak to your interests can lead to a richer, more rewarding experience.
In personal relationships, this quote highlights the value of meaningful connections over numerous superficial ones. It suggests that just as with books, the quality and depth of friendships matter more than the sheer number of them. Cultivating a few close, trusted friendships that offer genuine support, understanding, and shared experiences can be far more fulfilling than having a large circle of acquaintances. This approach encourages investing time and effort into nurturing relationships that bring real joy and comfort, much like one might carefully choose and savor a select few favorite books.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
