In "Ex Libris: Confessions of a Common Reader," Anne Fadiman explores the deep connection between individuals and literature. She shares personal anecdotes about her experiences with books, showcasing her passion for reading and the joy it brings. Fadiman reflects on the significance of text and how small mistakes, like typos, can have a lasting impact on a reader's perception and enjoyment of a work.

The quote, "I can imagine few worse fates than walking around for the rest of one's life wearing a typo," emphasizes the importance of precision in writing and the way errors can haunt both authors and readers. Fadiman's sentiment reveals her appreciation for language and the intimacy of the reading experience, suggesting that even minor flaws can affect one’s relationship with a book.