In A.S. Byatt's novel "Possession," the quote "To a dusty shelf we aspire" evokes a sense of longing for knowledge, history, and the legacy of literature. It reflects the idea that books, much like the stories they contain, often become neglected or forgotten as time passes. This phrase highlights the contrast between the vibrancy of literary exploration and the inevitable dust that settles on unexamined texts.

The aspirational quality of the quote suggests that while we seek enlightenment and connection through literature, there is always a risk of becoming distant from those very works over time. Byatt encourages readers to actively engage with literature, rather than allowing their aspirations to gather dust, reminding us of the importance of keeping the pursuit of knowledge alive and vibrant.