Nick Hornby, in his book "Housekeeping vs. the Dirt," discusses the phenomenon of influential literature and its impact on readers. He points out that many people may have been influenced by a significant work without actually engaging with the original text. This leads to a disconnect, where readers struggle to fully grasp the importance and depth of the book that shaped many other works or ideas. Hornby emphasizes the challenge of understanding the greatness of a foundational text when one's knowledge comes primarily from derivative sources. This situation highlights the importance of reading original influential works to truly appreciate their contributions to literature and thought.