Quote by Sebastian Roch Nicolas Chamfort,
Most anthologists of quotations are like those who eat cherries or oysters; first picking the best ones and winding up by eating everything.
Summary
This quote suggests that most anthologists, or compilers of quotations, are similar to people who selectively choose the best cherries or oysters to eat, but ultimately end up consuming everything without discrimination. It implies that these anthologists may begin their task with careful selection, choosing only the finest quotations, but eventually include less notable ones as well, without distinguishing between the good and the mediocre. The quote highlights a tendency to prioritize quantity over quality in the process of compiling quotations.