To Read or not to Read
The work categorizes literature into three distinct classes. The first class consists of essential readings that provide significant insights and knowledge, including classical texts and historical accounts. The second class includes works that merit re-reading for their depth and enduring value, particularly in poetry and philosophy, emphasizing the importance of engaging with the masters rather than lesser figures. The third class, deemed the most crucial, comprises books that should be avoided entirely. This includes works that lack substance, are overly argumentative, or fail to provoke thought. The author argues that guiding readers on what not to read is more beneficial than suggesting what to read, as literary appreciation is subjective and rooted in personal temperament. The text critiques the overwhelming volume of contemporary literature that distracts from genuine admiration and contemplation. It advocates for a curated list of the least valuable books to aid future generations in navigating the literary landscape. The author expresses a desire to include overlooked works, such as the _Greek Anthology_ and the writings of Edgar Allan Poe, while suggesting the exclusion of less impactful authors to make room for these significant voices. Overall, the work emphasizes the importance of discernment in reading, encouraging a focus on quality over quantity in literary consumption.
By Oscar Wilde · First published 1891 · Genre: Literary Criticism, Essays, Philosophy · 599 words
First lines
(_Pall Mall Gazette_, February 8, 1886.)
Books, I fancy, may be conveniently divided into three classes:
What this Textopian page supports
To Read or not to Read is listed on Textopian as an essay by Oscar Wilde, dated 1891 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Oscar Wilde
- Date: 1891 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Criticism, Essays, Philosophy, Non-fiction, Cultural Commentary
- Length: 599 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for To Read or not to Read by Oscar Wilde
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering To Read or not to Read?
- How does this essay by Oscar Wilde fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Criticism first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- Reality by Hilaire Belloc
- A Fascinating Book by Oscar Wilde
- A Dialogue Among Clever People by Leo Tolstoy
- On Sitting Down To Read King Lear Once Again by John Keats
- A Three Sided Question by Oliver Herford
Genres
- Literary Criticism — The work primarily discusses the value of different types of literature and the importance of discerning what to read and what not to read.
- Essays — The format and style of the work align with essay writing, presenting personal opinions and reflections on literature.
- Philosophy — The text engages with philosophical ideas about literature, knowledge, and the nature of reading.
- Non-fiction — The work is based on factual discussions about literature and reading practices.
Tags
Philosophical · Literary · Satirical · Humorous · Intellectual · Thought-provoking · Poetic · Witty · Insightful · Critical · Analytical · Theatrical