For the judging of contemporary literature the only test is one's personal taste. If you much like a new book, you must call it literature even though you find no other soul to agree with you, and if you dislike a book you must declare that it is not literature though a million voices should shout you that you are wrong. The ultimate decision will be made by Time.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Literary value is determined by personal taste initially but ultimately by Time.
- In plain terms
- Trust your personal judgment on books even if no one agrees, for time will decide.
- What can you take from it?
- Personal taste is the first test of art; endurance is the final one.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who decides art value?
- Does time judge fairly?
Another view
Personal taste can be biased or limited by culture.
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