Meaning: The quote "Reading is an activity subsequent to writing: more resigned, more civil, more intellectual" by Jorge Luis Borges, an Argentine writer and poet, encapsulates the interconnectedness and symbiotic relationship between reading and writing. In this quote, Borges suggests that reading is a passive, contemplative activity that follows the active act of writing. He attributes certain qualities to reading, describing it as more resigned, civil, and intellectual compared to writing.

Borges' assertion that reading is "more resigned" than writing implies that it requires a certain acceptance or surrender to the words and ideas of others. When we read, we are often engaging with the thoughts and perspectives of others, allowing their words to shape and influence our own understanding. This act of resignation suggests a willingness to be receptive and open-minded, acknowledging the authority of the writer's voice and yielding to the narrative or argument presented.

Furthermore, Borges describes reading as "more civil," hinting at the decorum and respect inherent in the act of engaging with written texts. Reading requires a certain level of courtesy and civility, as it involves entering into a dialogue with the author and their ideas. It implies a level of intellectual engagement that demands a respectful and attentive approach to the written word.

Lastly, Borges characterizes reading as "more intellectual," suggesting that it involves a higher level of mental activity and contemplation. When we read, we are required to interpret, analyze, and synthesize the information presented to us. This process of intellectual engagement often leads to a deeper understanding of the subject matter and an expansion of our own knowledge and perspectives.

It is important to note that Borges was a prolific writer and a voracious reader himself, and his views on the relationship between reading and writing were deeply influenced by his own experiences as a creator and consumer of literature. As a writer, Borges understood the creative act of writing and the power it holds in shaping the thoughts and experiences of others. However, he also recognized the essential role of reading in the dissemination and reception of written works.

In essence, Borges' quote underscores the complementary nature of reading and writing, highlighting the significance of both activities in the realm of intellectual and literary pursuits. While writing is an active and creative process that gives birth to new ideas and narratives, reading serves as a receptive and contemplative activity that allows for the absorption and interpretation of these ideas. Together, they form a harmonious cycle of expression and reception, each enriching and informing the other.

In conclusion, Borges' quote serves as a profound reflection on the dynamics of reading and writing, emphasizing the passive yet essential nature of reading in relation to the active act of writing. It invites us to consider the virtues of reading as a contemplative, civil, and intellectual pursuit, while acknowledging its indispensable role in shaping our understanding of the world. Ultimately, Borges' words remind us of the enduring power and influence of literature, and the enduring significance of the written word in our lives.