"Books, I don't know what you see in them. I can understand a person reading them, but I can't for the life of me see why people have to write them"

This quote by Peter Ustinov speaks to the idea that books can be both a source of entertainment and knowledge, but likewise a source of confusion and aggravation. Ustinov is revealing his confusion regarding why people feel the requirement to compose books, when they can simply read them. He is suggesting that reading books is a much easier and more satisfying activity than writing them. Ustinov is likely describing the amount of effort and commitment that enters into composing a book, and the fact that it can be a long and tough process. He is likewise likely referring to the truth that composing a book can be a dangerous venture, as there is no warranty that it will be successful. Ustinov's quote is a tip that books can be both a source of enjoyment and a source of frustration, which writing them is a challenging and often thankless job.