“Nietzsche said without music, life would be a mistake. To me, without books, life would be a mistake.” ― Ernest J. Gaines
Ernest J. Gaines is expressing his deep love and appreciation for books in this quote. He is comparing the role of books in his life to that of music in Nietzsche's philosophy. According to Nietzsche, music is a fundamental aspect of life that cannot be ignored, and Gaines believes that books are just as important.
By stating that "without books, life would be a mistake," Gaines is suggesting that reading is not just a hobby or pastime, but an essential part of living a fulfilling life. Books offer knowledge, wisdom, and perspectives that we might not otherwise encounter, and they have the power to shape and transform our understanding of the world. Gaines recognizes the immense value of books in his life, and he believes that they are necessary for anyone who wants to truly understand the world and themselves.
Ernest J. Gaines was an American author known for his works of fiction that explored themes of race, class, and identity in the American South.