An ordinary man can...surround himself with two thousand books..and thenceforward have at least one place in the world in which it is possible to be happy.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Accumulating books provides a personal sanctuary for happiness.
- In plain terms
- Books create a happy place for anyone.
- What can you take from it?
- Books build a personal refuge.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can books truly make you happy?
- What creates a safe place?
Another view
It assumes access to books and space.
More from Augustine Birrell
It can never be wrong to give pleasure.
Permalink to quote #9 There are no habits of man more alien to the doctrine of the Communist than those of the collector
Permalink to quote #8 There were no books in Eden, and there will be none in heaven;
Permalink to quote #7
Related quotes
It is the friendship of books that has made me perfectly happy.
Desiderius ErasmusDesiderius Erasmus quote #13 'In my little box / At the top of the stair / With my Indian rug / And a pipe to share.' - 'Pocahontas'
Neil YoungNeil Young quote #13 The habit of reading is the only one I know in which there is no alloy. It lasts when all other pleasures fade. It will be there to support you when all other …
Anthony TrollopeAnthony Trollope quote #83