Meaning: This quote comes from James Loeb, an American businessman and philanthropist who is best known for his creation of the Loeb Classical Library. The quote reflects Loeb's dedication to obtaining the best available translations for the library, even when copyright issues posed obstacles.

The Loeb Classical Library is a series of books that presents the ancient Greek and Latin writings in parallel text with English translations. It was founded by James Loeb in the early 20th century with the goal of making the literary heritage of the ancient world accessible to a wider audience. The series includes works of epic and lyric poetry, history, philosophy, and oratory, as well as the plays of the major Greek and Roman dramatists.

In the quote, Loeb emphasizes the importance of securing modern translations of "marked excellence" for the library. This reflects his commitment to ensuring that the texts were not only accessible but also presented in a manner that did justice to their literary and intellectual significance. By seeking out the best available translations, Loeb aimed to provide readers with a high-quality experience that would allow them to engage with the ancient texts in a meaningful way.

The quote also alludes to the challenges that Loeb encountered in his efforts to obtain these translations. Copyright issues often stood in the way of securing the desired translations for the library. This highlights the complexities involved in acquiring the rights to publish and distribute modern translations of ancient texts. Despite these obstacles, Loeb remained determined to make the best translations available to the readers of the library.

Loeb's dedication to excellence in translation reflects his deep respect for the classical texts and his desire to ensure that they were presented in a manner that preserved their literary and scholarly value. By seeking out and securing the best modern translations, he sought to create a resource that would be widely accessible and academically rigorous.

The quote also sheds light on Loeb's approach to the project, emphasizing the meticulous care and effort that went into curating the library. It underscores his belief in the importance of quality and the lengths to which he was willing to go to uphold it. This dedication to excellence has contributed to the enduring reputation of the Loeb Classical Library as a standard-bearer in the field of classical studies.

In conclusion, James Loeb's quote encapsulates his commitment to securing the best modern translations for the Loeb Classical Library, despite the challenges posed by copyright issues. It reflects his dedication to excellence and his desire to make the literary treasures of the ancient world accessible to a wider audience. The quote serves as a testament to Loeb's vision and the enduring legacy of the library he created.