I should as soon think of swimming across Charles River when I wish to go to Boston, as of reading all my books in originals when I have them rendered for me in my mother tongue.

The speaker compares reading everything in its original language with swimming across a river to reach Boston. Both are presented as unnecessary effort when an easier means is available. The comparison defends translations through a practical, deliberately exaggerated image of inconvenience.

Context reviewed 20 September 2026