In one of her best novels, Emma (published 1815), Jane Austen brilliantly describes the enthusiasm, overconfidence, and snobbery of a young woman of the would-be gentry. I was struck by the description of her protagonist's lack of resolve regarding quality literature, noticing how true to life it is of so many people nowadays -- people like those who often admire and express interest in our book clubs and reading projects but who quickly take a powder if actually called upon to participate.
“Emma has been meaning to read more ever since she was twelve years old. I have seen a great many of her lists drawing up at various times of books that she meant to read regularly through -- and very good lists they were -- very well chosen and very neatly arranged -- sometimes alphabetically and sometimes by some other rule…But I have done with expecting any course of study reading from Emma. She will never submit to anything requiring industry and patience and a subjection of the fancy to the understanding.”