This quote humorously points out that longer documents are less likely to be read in their entirety due to their length. It implies that the more extensive a document is, the higher the chances it will deter people from reading it, thus ‘defending’ its content from being fully known or understood. This can be due to the time commitment required, the complexity of the content, or simply the intimidation of a large volume of text.

In today’s fast-paced, information-overloaded world, this idea is even more relevant. With the constant influx of information and limited time, people often prefer concise, direct, and easily digestible content. Long reports, lengthy articles, or extensive research papers run the risk of being skimmed or overlooked entirely. This phenomenon is often seen in our interaction with terms and conditions or privacy policies of digital platforms, which are typically lengthy and complicated, leading most users to accept without reading them thoroughly.

From a personal development perspective, this quote might encourage us to be more concise and effective in our communication. Whether in writing or speaking, being able to express our thoughts and ideas succinctly can help ensure that our message is fully received and understood. It also stresses the importance of respecting others’ time and attention spans.

Moreover, it might also inspire us to be more selective and purposeful in what we choose to read or spend our time on. Given the vast amount of information available, it’s essential to prioritize quality over quantity, focusing on content that truly adds value and contributes to our growth and understanding.

Therefore, while the quote was said in jest, it holds a valuable lesson about the importance of brevity, clarity, and relevance in communication, as well as the mindful consumption of information.