Quote#Books & Reading
I wanted not merely to get up my classics, but to penetrate to the…
Quote byMark Pattison · 1813–1884
Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: Memoirs (1885), Chapter III, p. 105.
English (original)
I wanted not merely to get up my classics, but to penetrate to the secrets and mysteries which I vaguely understood to be somehow wrapt up in books, though they had not, as yet, been revealed to me. I was disconcerted to find that none of my new acquaintance had any share of this yearning curiosity.
— Mark Pattison
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This book for men alone is meant, Book-worms, or bibliophiles anent, Of solid mind, of serious bent, On curious, hidden books intent, On odd research and learning.
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When I survey the bright Celestial sphere; So rich with jewels hung, that Night Doth like an Ethiop bride appear:My soul her wings doth spread And heavenward flies, Th' Almighty's mysteries to read
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