"Si uno no puede disfrutar leyendo un libro una y otra vez no hay ninguna utilidad en leerlo en absoluto"

The core idea here is pretty straightforward: if you're not going to get repeated enjoyment or value from a book, maybe it's not worth your time in the first place. It's kind of like saying that a good book should be like an old friend you can visit again and again, and still find something new or comforting each time.

Now, let's get a little historical here. This quote comes from Oscar Wilde, an Irish poet and playwright known for his sharp wit and flamboyant style. Wilde lived in the late 19th century, a time when books were one of the primary sources of entertainment and enlightenment. So, it makes sense he'd place a high value on the kind of book that could stand the test of time and offer lasting pleasure.

Think about a book like J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone." Many people read it as children and then come back to it as adults. Each time, they find something new—maybe it's a piece of foreshadowing they missed or a deeper understanding of a character's complexities. That book stays relevant because it’s layered with meaning and nostalgia. If a book can't draw you back for another read, maybe it just wasn't that great to begin with.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your own life? Next time you pick up a book, ask yourself: "Is this something I could see myself reading again?" If the answer is no, maybe it’s worth considering another option. It's like choosing friends—if you wouldn't want to spend more time with them, why invest now?

Let's dive into a relatable scenario. Imagine you're at a bookstore, and you see two books. One is by an author you’ve never heard of, but the blurb sounds kind of intriguing. The other is a new release by your favorite author, someone whose work you've read over and over. Which one do you pick? If you're following Wilde’s advice, you’d probably go with the one by your favorite author. You know it’s going to be worth your time because past experience has shown you’ll want to revisit it.

Or, think about it like this: ever had a meal at a restaurant that's so good you can't stop thinking about it? You tell yourself you’ve got to go back because that dish was just perfect. Books can be like that meal. If it's good enough, you'll want to experience it again and again. If it's not, well, maybe there's a better choice out there for you.

In essence, don't settle for "one-time reads." Life's too short for mediocre books. Go for the stories that call you back, the ones that feel like home every time you open their pages. They're the ones worth your time, the ones that enrich your life, not just fill a couple of hours. So, next time you find a book that you can't put down, ask yourself if it's one you’ll want to pick up again. If it is, you've found a keeper. If not, keep searching—your perfect book is out there.