Meaning: The quote "Not as ours the books of old - Things that steam can stamp and fold; Not as ours the books of yore - Rows of type, and nothing more" by Austin Dobson reflects on the changing nature of books and the impact of technology on the way information is disseminated. This quote captures the sentiment that traditional books, with their physical pages and printed text, are distinct from the modern methods of book production, which involve steam-powered machinery and mass printing.

Austin Dobson was an English poet and essayist who lived during the 19th century, a time of significant technological advancements, particularly in the field of printing and publishing. The quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the shift from traditional craftsmanship and manual labor to industrialized processes, and the implications this has for the nature of books and reading.

In the first part of the quote, Dobson contrasts the books of old with the modern methods of production, emphasizing the mechanized nature of the contemporary book-making process. The reference to "steam" implies the industrial revolution and the introduction of steam-powered machinery, which revolutionized the printing industry, making it possible to produce books on a much larger scale than before. The idea of "stamp and fold" further reinforces the mechanized and mass-produced nature of modern books, highlighting the departure from the handcrafted quality of traditional books.

The second part of the quote emphasizes the simplicity and uniformity of modern books, characterized by "rows of type, and nothing more." This can be seen as a criticism of the lack of individuality and artistry in mass-produced books, as opposed to the unique craftsmanship and attention to detail found in older, handcrafted volumes. Dobson seems to mourn the loss of the personal touch and aesthetic beauty that were inherent in traditional books, which were often meticulously crafted and adorned with illustrations, ornate bindings, and handwritten elements.

Overall, the quote reflects a nostalgic longing for the bygone era of bookmaking, where books were more than just vessels for information – they were works of art in their own right. It also serves as a reminder of the profound impact of technological advancements on the way we produce and consume literature. The shift from handcrafted, individualized books to mass-produced, uniform volumes represents a broader societal transformation, with implications for craftsmanship, aesthetics, and the overall experience of reading.

In conclusion, Austin Dobson's quote "Not as ours the books of old - Things that steam can stamp and fold; Not as ours the books of yore - Rows of type, and nothing more" poignantly captures the changing nature of books and the impact of industrialization on the production of literature. It serves as a reflection on the loss of craftsmanship and individuality in modern bookmaking, and as a reminder of the profound impact of technology on the way we create and interact with written works.