It strikes a chord so deep in human nature that we feel it is only the divine nature. When we feel the inspiring influence of books, when we are lifted on the wings of ancient genius, we should jealously avoid the perversion of the gift. The children of this world have their research and accomplishment and enough is done for pleasure and fame. The Christian scholar will rebuke himself, unless he find it in his heart to be more alive in devotion to heavenly things. He will know at the very moment when he has breathed the aroma of poetry and eloquence.
Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested.
That is, some books are to be read only in parts. Others to be read, but not curiously. And some few to be read wholly, and with diligence and attention. Some books also may be read by deputy, and extracts made of them by others. That would be only in the less important arguments, and the meaner sort of books.