Al forms of consensus about great books and perennial problems, once stabilized, tend to deteriorate eventually into something philistine. The real life of the mind is always at the frontiers of what is already known. Those great books don't only need custodians and transmitters. To stay alive, they also need adversaries. The most interesting ideas are heresies.

Summary

This quote suggests that over time, consensus or widely accepted views on important literature and enduring issues begin to lose their significance and become superficial. It argues that true intellectual growth occurs at the boundaries of existing knowledge, where fresh ideas and perspectives challenge established beliefs. The quote emphasizes that classic books require more than just preservers and conveyors— they also benefit from opposing views and controversies to maintain their vitality. Ultimately, it contends that the most captivating and innovative ideas are often considered heretical, further highlighting the value of intellectual dissent.

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