Quote Do not read, as children do, to amuse yourself,...

“Do not read, as children do, to amuse yourself, or like the ambitious, for the purpose of instruction. No, read in order to live.” - Gustave Flaubert

Decryption of quote

Do not read, as children do, to amuse yourself, for reading is not merely a form of entertainment. It is a gateway to new worlds, new ideas, and new perspectives. When we read solely for amusement, we limit the potential impact that literature can have on our lives.

Or like the ambitious, for the purpose of instruction. Reading should not be approached as a task to be completed or a box to be checked off. It is not about acquiring knowledge for the sake of impressing others or furthering our own ambitions. Instead, reading should be seen as a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

No, read in order to live. To truly live is to engage with the world around us, to seek out new experiences, and to constantly challenge our own beliefs and assumptions. Reading allows us to do all of these things and more. It opens our minds to possibilities we never before imagined and helps us to better understand ourselves and others.

Through reading, we can explore the depths of human emotion and experience. We can walk in the shoes of characters who are vastly different from ourselves and gain insight into their struggles and triumphs. We can learn from the wisdom of those who have come before us and apply their teachings to our own lives.

Reading is not just a solitary activity, but a communal one. It connects us to a larger conversation that has been ongoing for centuries. It allows us to engage with the thoughts and ideas of others, to challenge our own beliefs, and to grow in empathy and understanding.

When we read in order to live, we are actively participating in the world around us. We are expanding our minds, broadening our horizons, and deepening our understanding of ourselves and others. We are embracing the fullness of life and all that it has to offer.

So, do not read passively or for selfish gain. Instead, read with intention and purpose. Read to enrich your mind, to broaden your perspective, and to deepen your connection to the world. Read in order to truly live.




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