Reasons to Write: All Those Books

It seems that those who write must also read. Almost every correspondent I have is an avid reader and our reading lists inevitably come up in conversation. Some of us have even read the very same books. I take great delight in learning that a book I am currently enjoying has at some point already given pleasure to a friend. Such a book offers us a shared memory.  

I recently returned to an abandoned book: The Seaboard Parish by George MacDonald. It was not at all difficult to get back into as I remembered the story fairly well. I came across this line the other night and felt the urge to share it with somebody who would appreciate it. You do not need to understand the context as the quote is sufficient to impress one with the civility of the conversation.

"With all my heart," answered Percivale. "I must warn you, however, that I have not much they will care to see. They will perhaps go away less happy than they entered. Not many people care to see my pictures twice." "I would not send you anyone I thought unworthy of the honour," answered my wife. Percivale bowed--one of his stately, old-world bows, which I greatly liked. "Any friend of yours--that is guarantee sufficient," he answered.

Such kindness and civility. Our own conversations should be so marked. When I read this I felt it was worth getting back to so I highlighted it in hopes of sharing it.

George MacDonald lived from 1824 to 1905 and is best known for his fantasy works, He influenced such greats as J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Lewis Carroll, and G.K. Chesterton. When I read George MacDonald I am in good company indeed.