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About this quote

What does it mean?
New books can distract us from revisiting the timeless wisdom found in older works.
In plain terms
Don't let new books keep you from reading the classics.
What can you take from it?
Balance new reading with revisiting old favorites.

Where it applies

  • reading lists
  • study
  • library visits

Putting it to work

  • prioritize classics
  • review old books
  • curate reading list

Questions to consider

  • What old book have you neglected?
  • How do you choose between new and old?

Another view

New books often offer necessary fresh perspectives.

More from Joseph Joubert

  1. The talkative man speaks from his mouth, the eloquent man speaks from his heart.

    Permalink to quote #69
  2. There are single thoughts that contain the essence of the whole volume, single sentences that have the beauties of large work.

    Permalink to quote #71
  3. The purpose of a liberal education is to make one's mind a pleasant place to spend one's leisure.

    Permalink to quote #68

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