“‘Classic.’ A book which people praise and don’t read.”
- November 30, 1835 – April 21, 1910
- American
- Author, humorist, and lecturer
- Wrote masterpieces such as “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” and had a major influence on American literature
Quote
“‘Classic.’ A book which people praise and don’t read.”
Explanation
In this witty remark, Mark Twain pokes fun at the way certain books are elevated to the status of “classic”—often praised and discussed, but rarely actually read. Twain’s definition of a classic highlights the disconnect between the public reverence for certain works and the lack of genuine engagement with them. The quote exposes how books, especially those deemed “classic,” can become part of the cultural canon due to their perceived importance, yet remain largely unread by the very people who speak highly of them. This observation reflects Twain’s critical view of societal trends, where things are often admired because of tradition or status rather than their true value or relevance.
Twain, who lived during a time when the literary establishment was asserting its influence on what constituted worthy reading, often rejected such formalities. His humor and satirical writing were often aimed at pointing out the pretensions and contradictions of the literary world, where books were praised for being “timeless” or “important” without necessarily being enjoyed or understood by the general public. By labeling these books as “classics,” he underlines the irony that many cultural icons may be more about social currency than actual content or meaning.
This idea remains relevant in today’s world, especially in discussions about literary canon and cultural significance. Many books are celebrated as classics—whether in high school reading lists or in literary circles—yet often remain unread by the masses. For instance, works like Moby-Dick or Ulysses are often discussed as great literary achievements, yet their actual readership can be quite limited. Twain’s quote serves as a humorous reminder to question why certain books are labeled as “must-reads” and to consider whether these works are truly being appreciated for their content or simply for their cultural status.
