
Christopher Morley was an American journalist, novelist, essayist, and poet, known for his engaging prose and wit. He gained prominence in the early 20th century with works such as 'Parnassus on Wheels' and 'The Haunted Bookshop', which cleverly blended humor with themes of literature and the book trade. Morley's writing often reflected his love for books and the written word, earning him a devoted readership. His ability to capture the essence of literary life made him a significant figure in American literature during his time. In addition to his novels, Morley was a prolific essayist and contributed to various publications, where he showcased his talent for commentary on contemporary culture. He also ventured into theater, producing stage works and delivering lectures at colleges, further establishing his presence in the literary and academic communities. Morley's legacy endures through his contributions to literature and journalism, as he remains a notable figure for his exploration of the relationship between readers and books, as well as his influence on American literary culture in the early 20th century.
“There is no mistaking a real book when one meets it. It is like falling in love.”
“Read, every day, something no one else is reading. Think, every day, something no one else is thinking. Do, every day, something no one else would be silly enough to do. It is bad for the mind to be always part of unanimity.”
“When you sell a man a book you don’t sell him just twelve ounces of paper and ink and glue—you sell him a whole new life. Love and friendship and humour and ships at sea by night—there’s all heaven and earth in a book, a real book I mean.”