When you read a book for the first time, you get to know a friend, read it for a second time and you will meet an old friend

when you read a book for the first time, you (can|will) know a friend, (when you|) read it for a second time, you (can|will|) meet an old friend

Definition & Meaning of "when you read a book for the first time, you get to know a friend, read it for a second time and you will meet an old friend"

when you read a book for the first time, you get to know a friend, read it for a second time and you will meet an old friend

SENTENCE

used to suggest that re-reading a book can reveal new insights and perspectives, and deepen one's understanding of the story and characters

Proverb

What is the origin of the proverb "when you read a book for the first time, you get to know a friend, read it for a second time and you will meet an old friend " and when to use it?

The proverb "when you read a book for the first time, you get to know a friend, read it for a second time and you will meet an old friend" is often attributed to Chinese or Japanese wisdom, though its exact origin is unclear. It highlights the idea that reading a book for the first time is like forming a new connection, while rereading it allows deeper understanding, much like revisiting an old friend. It is used to emphasize the value of rereading books, as each reading can reveal new insights and perspectives.

Example

The bibliophile knew that when you read a book for the first time you get to know a friend, read it for a second time and you meet an old friend, and had a personal library filled with well-worn volumes that he enjoyed revisiting over and over again.