We, as we read, must become Greeks, Romans, Turks, priest and king, martyr and executioner; must fasten these images to some reality in our secret experience, or we shall learn nothing rightly.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the importance of actively engaging with the literature we read. It suggests that we should not passively consume words on a page, but rather immerse ourselves so deeply in the text that we can empathize with the characters and their experiences. By "becoming" different people across diverse cultures, backgrounds, and positions, we can gain a deeper understanding of the human condition and learn valuable lessons from the literature we encounter. This process of identification and connection allows us to truly learn and grow from our reading.

Topics