"The mortality of all inanimate things is terrible to me, but that of books most of all"

This quote by William Dean Howells speaks with the power of books and the unhappiness of their death. Howells is revealing his sorrow at the reality that books, like all other inanimate objects, will eventually disappear. He is emphasizing the fact that books, unlike other objects, contain understanding and stories that can be passed down through generations. He is lamenting the truth that, in spite of their significance, books will eventually be lost to time. Howells is expressing his unhappiness at the truth that books, like all other things, will eventually die. He is highlighting the importance of books and the need to protect them for future generations. He is reminding us that books are a valuable source of knowledge and ought to be treasured and secured. He is advising us to appreciate the power of books and to make sure that their stories and understanding are not lost to time.