The quote reflects a philosophy of reading that values the wisdom and stability found in the literary works of the past. The speaker acknowledges that while he respects modern authors, he prefers to engage with books that have stood the test of time. By limiting his reading to those works, he believes he can invest his limited time more wisely, choosing texts that history has validated. This perspective suggests a reverence for the enduring themes and insights found in older literature.

This approach emphasizes the importance of time in assessing literary merit. The speaker’s rationale implies that books written by authors who have been gone for at least thirty years offer a trustworthy perspective, as their works have had time to influence culture and thought. Life being short reinforces his desire to avoid potentially ephemeral modern literature, driving home a sense of urgency in making reading choices that enrich and deepen understanding.