"A novel must be exceptionally good to live as long as the average cat"

This quote by Lord Chesterfield is a reflection on the longevity of a novel. He is suggesting that an unique need to be of extraordinary quality in order to stay relevant and remembered for as long as the typical life-span of a feline. This suggests that the typical book is quickly forgotten and does not stand the test of time. Lord Chesterfield is recommending that an unique need to be of a greater quality than the average in order to be remembered and appreciated for a longer period of time. This quote is a suggestion to authors that they should make every effort to create works of remarkable quality in order to be remembered and valued for several years to come. It is also a suggestion to readers that they need to seek out works of remarkable quality in order to ensure that they read something that will stand the test of time.