"I knew I would read all kinds of books and try to get at what it is that makes good writers good. But I made no promises that I would write books a lot of people would like to read"

Carl Sandburg's quote speaks with the idea that reading is a fundamental part of ending up being a great writer. He acknowledges that he will check out a variety of books in order to acquire insight into what makes great authors good, however he does not make any pledges that he will write books that will be popular. This suggests that he is more thinking about the craft of composing than in the commercial success of his work. He wants to take threats and check out originalities, even if it suggests that his books might not be commonly read. This quote shows Sandburg's commitment to the art of writing and his willingness to take risks in order to develop something meaningful.