Only in some very special cases is comprehension the point of reading--in things like recipes and "reading material." The point of reading is understanding, and comprehension is to understanding as getting wet is to swimming. You must do the one before you can hope to do the other, but you don't do the other simply because you do the one. Richard Mitchell
About This Quote

William Burroughs was a writer who was well known for his unique style. His work included novels, short stories, essays, scripts, and more. In this quote, he is speaking of the importance of reading. He had some very intelligent things to say about the value of reading.

One thing that stands out is that you shouldn't read just because you comprehend the words on the page. He emphasizes that reading is an excuse to gain understanding. This is especially true when you are reading something you don't understand.

For example, if you are trying to translate a recipe from another language into English, it will be helpful if you have a basic understanding of the language. Otherwise, it will only cause confusion.

Source: The Leaning Tower Of Babel And Other Affronts By The Underground Grammarian

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  1. Far from failing in its intended task, our educational system is in fact succeeding magnificently because its aim is to keep the American people thoughtless enough to go on supporting the system.
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