In the book "Housekeeping vs. the Dirt" by Nick Hornby, the author reflects on the struggle of engaging with a challenging read. He suggests that books that require excessive effort and bring frustration can become counterproductive for readers. When a book feels burdensome and causes emotional distress, it often fails to imprint on the reader's memory, leading to minimal learning and a diminished enjoyment of literature.

Hornby emphasizes that such an experience can deter individuals from choosing books again in the future. Instead of opting for a rewarding reading experience, people may favor easier distractions, such as television, particularly when faced with difficult texts. The quote captures the essence of how literature should ideally enhance our lives, rather than create obstacles that push us away from reading.