When politicians and politically minded people pay too much attention to literature, it is a bad sign -- a bad sign mostly for literature. But it is also a bad sign when they don't want to hear the word mentioned.

Summary

This quote suggests that both an excessive focus and a lack of interest from politicians and politically minded individuals towards literature are detrimental, primarily to the literary world. When politicians pay excessive attention to literature, it implies that they are exploiting it for their own agendas, potentially compromising the integrity and autonomy of literature. Conversely, when these individuals refuse to acknowledge or discuss literature, it signifies a disregard for the ideas, criticism, and perspectives that literature brings to societal debates. Ultimately, a balanced and respectful engagement with literature by politicians is crucial for both literature's well-being and the broader political discourse.

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