Meaning: John Ruskin, the renowned English writer, art critic, and social thinker, made this thought-provoking statement: "All books are divisible into two classes, the books of the hour, and the books of all time." This quote encapsulates the enduring nature of literature and the distinction between works that capture the zeitgeist of their era and those that transcend temporal boundaries to resonate with readers across generations.

Ruskin's assertion underscores the idea that literature can be categorized into two distinct groups based on its lasting impact and relevance. The "books of the hour" refer to works that are popular and influential during a specific period, often reflecting the prevailing trends, concerns, and values of that time. These books may captivate audiences with their immediate relevance, addressing contemporary issues and capturing the spirit of the age. However, their significance may diminish as societal dynamics and cultural preoccupations evolve, relegating them to a specific historical moment.

On the other hand, the "books of all time" represent a timeless quality that transcends the limitations of a particular era. These enduring works possess a universal appeal and enduring relevance that allows them to resonate with readers across different time periods and cultural contexts. They offer profound insights into the human condition, enduring themes, and timeless truths that continue to captivate and enrich the lives of successive generations. Such books often explore fundamental aspects of human existence, morality, and the complexities of the human experience, making them timeless and universally appreciated.

Ruskin's dichotomy sheds light on the dynamic nature of literature and the enduring power of certain works to transcend the confines of their historical and cultural origins. It invites readers to contemplate the distinction between fleeting trends and enduring literary achievements, prompting us to consider the criteria by which we evaluate the lasting impact of literary works.

This quote also raises questions about the role of literature in reflecting and shaping the ethos of its time. "Books of the hour" serve as cultural artifacts that offer insights into the concerns, values, and aspirations of a specific era, providing valuable historical and sociocultural perspectives. They capture the pulse of a society at a given moment, offering a window into the prevailing attitudes, intellectual currents, and social dynamics of that period. While their immediate relevance may diminish, they remain valuable for understanding the historical context in which they emerged.

Conversely, the enduring relevance of the "books of all time" invites us to explore the enduring themes, universal truths, and timeless wisdom contained within these works. They offer a testament to the enduring power of literature to transcend temporal boundaries and resonate with readers across diverse cultural landscapes. These works often provoke profound reflections on the human condition, morality, and the complexities of existence, making them indispensable sources of insight and inspiration for successive generations.

In conclusion, John Ruskin's quote encapsulates the enduring dichotomy of literature, delineating between the books that capture the spirit of their time and those that transcend temporal boundaries to resonate with readers across ages. It prompts us to ponder the dynamic interplay between ephemeral trends and enduring literary achievements, inviting us to appreciate the multifaceted role of literature in reflecting and transcending the constraints of its historical and cultural milieu.