"What makes a book great, a so-called classic, it its quality of always being modern, of its author, though he be long dead, continuing to speak to each new generation"

In this quote, Lawrence Clark Powell is highlighting the timeless nature of excellent books. He argues that what sets a book apart as a classic is its capability to stay pertinent and relatable to each brand-new generation, in spite of the passage of time. This quality is what makes a book truly fantastic, as it enables the author's message and voice to continue to resonate with readers long after their death. Powell recommends that a book's success is not identified by its appeal or sales, however rather by its capability to go beyond time and get in touch with readers from various eras. This quote stresses the long-lasting power of literature and the effect it can have on individuals and society as a whole.