Meaning: Jean de La Bruyère was a 17th-century French philosopher and moralist known for his influential work "Les Caractères," a collection of moral reflections and maxims. The quote "Making a book is a craft, like making a clock; it needs more than native wit to be an author" encapsulates the idea that writing a book is a skill that requires more than just natural intelligence or talent.

When La Bruyère compares making a book to making a clock, he is emphasizing the meticulous craftsmanship and expertise required in both endeavors. Just as crafting a clock demands precision, patience, and a deep understanding of the mechanics involved, creating a book necessitates careful planning, attention to detail, and a profound comprehension of language and storytelling.

To delve deeper into the quote, it's important to understand the implications of "native wit" and what it means to be an author. "Native wit" refers to innate intelligence or cleverness, implying that possessing natural talent or intellect alone is insufficient to successfully undertake the endeavor of writing a book. La Bruyère suggests that writing is a deliberate and learned skill that requires dedication, discipline, and a mastery of language and literary techniques.

The comparison of writing to crafting a clock also underscores the notion that writing is a structured and deliberate process. Much like assembling the intricate components of a clock to ensure its proper function, the act of composing a book involves arranging the elements of storytelling, character development, plot, and style in a coherent and effective manner. This requires not only creativity but also a keen sense of organization and structure.

Furthermore, the quote implies that being an author entails more than just the act of writing. It encompasses the ability to convey meaningful ideas, evoke emotions, and engage readers through the written word. It involves the capacity to capture the complexities of human experience, provoke thought, and inspire imagination. This broader understanding of authorship highlights the significance of writing as a means of communication and expression, elevating it beyond mere technical proficiency.

In essence, La Bruyère's quote serves as a reminder that writing is a multifaceted craft that demands both artistry and skill. It emphasizes the importance of honing one's literary abilities, refining the craft of storytelling, and approaching writing with a sense of purpose and dedication. By likening the process of making a book to the meticulous craftsmanship required in creating a clock, La Bruyère underscores the labor and expertise involved in producing a work of literature.

Ultimately, the quote encourages aspiring authors to recognize the depth and complexity of their craft, urging them to approach writing as a disciplined pursuit that necessitates a blend of creativity, proficiency, and dedication. It serves as a timeless testament to the artistry and skill inherent in the act of authorship, resonating with writers across generations as a reminder of the craftsmanship required to bring words to life on the page.