Jonathan Lethem reflects on the perception of unread books, suggesting that owning them is not a façade but rather an exciting prospect. For him, the potential and mystery of a book that remains unread can spark inspiration and creativity. The allure lies in the anticipation of discovering its contents, which can be just as enriching as the reading experience itself.

This sentiment is echoed in Leah Price's work, "Unpacking My Library: Writers and Their Books," where the relationship between writers and their collections of unread books is explored. Lethem's view invites readers to appreciate the significance of unread literature, recognizing that each volume carries untapped possibilities and imaginative value.