Don’t explain your author, read him right and he explains himself.

This quote by Mark Twain suggests that the true meaning of a work lies within the words of the author themselves, not in the interpretations or explanations of others. It emphasizes the importance of direct engagement with the original text to grasp the author’s intent, ideas, and emotions. It’s a call to rely on our own critical thinking skills to understand the essence of a work rather than depending on others’ perspectives.

Applying this idea to today’s world, it’s a reminder that we should seek first-hand information before forming our opinions. In the age of fake news and misinformation, it’s critical to go to the source instead of relying on interpretations, summaries, or potentially biased reports.

In terms of personal development, this quote encourages self-reliance and critical thinking. It asks us to not accept ideas at face value but to dig deeper, question, and form our own understanding. It’s about growing intellectually by engaging directly with original thoughts and ideas, rather than passively accepting others’ interpretations.