"'Classic.' A book which people praise and don't read"

Mark Twain's quote is an amusing criticism of the tendency of individuals to praise books without really reading them. He suggests that books are typically praised for their "classic" status, however that individuals don't actually take the time to read them. This is a commentary on the superficiality of modern-day society, where individuals typically value the look of knowledge over the real knowledge itself. Twain's quote is a pointer to readers to make the effort to in fact read the books they applaud, rather than merely appreciating them from afar. It is likewise a pointer to authors that their work ought to be read and appreciated, not simply applauded for its timeless status. Eventually, Twain's quote is a suggestion to readers and authors alike to take the time to appreciate and comprehend the books they read.