“My books are like water; those of the great geniuses are wine. (Fortunately) everybody drinks water.”
- 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
“My books are like water; those of the great geniuses are wine. (Fortunately) everybody drinks water.”
Explanation
Mark Twain’s quote humorously reflects his self-awareness and modesty regarding his own work, while also giving a playful nod to the idea that his writing may not be of the same lofty caliber as the great literary minds of history. By comparing his books to water—something simple, ubiquitous, and accessible—he contrasts them with the works of great geniuses, which he likens to wine, a more refined, complex, and elite substance. Twain’s acknowledgment that “everybody drinks water” is his way of saying that while his books may not be as elevated or complex as those of the literary greats, they are still widely read and appreciated by the masses. The humor here lies in Twain’s humble acceptance of his place in the literary world while acknowledging that his work has a broad appeal, even if it lacks the pretensions of more intellectual works.
Twain’s self-deprecating humor reflects his belief that literature doesn’t always need to be deeply intellectual or elitist to be valuable. While many of the great works of literature are praised for their complexity and depth, Twain suggests that accessibility and popular appeal also have their place, and that his books serve an important role in connecting with ordinary people. His comparison of books to water and wine also highlights the democratizing nature of literature—while some works may cater to an intellectual elite, others, like his own, are meant to be enjoyed by a wide audience without the need for specialized knowledge.
In modern times, this quote speaks to the ongoing tension between high art and popular culture. Whether in the realm of literature, music, or film, there is often debate about what constitutes valuable or meaningful art. Twain’s words encourage us to recognize the worth in works that are widely accessible, not just those that are critically acclaimed or intellectually complex. His humor reminds us that greatness in art can come in many forms, and that sometimes the most popular works are the ones that connect most directly with the everyday person.
