Quotations and Literature Forum

I am new to this site, so maybe I should have posted this on another forum. If it is in the wrong forum, I apologize. I started reading Tom Jones by Henry Fielding today. The first sentence just stumped me. Later today, I thought I'd look up the definition ordinary...it can mean a tavern or inn. A writer must think of themselves as person who sells food in a restaurant. People read the menu and can eat there or if they want something different, go somewhere else. I think that is what the quote means, does anyone else think so? "An author ought to consider himself not as a gentleman who gives a private or eleemosynary treat, but rather as one who keeps a public ordinary at which all persons are welcome for their money."

Hello Eiram and welcome, this is a good place to post your query.

It is not surprising that you find a words written in 1749 difficult to turn into sense, the use of words then so often differs from the modern meanings. Don't let it put you off Tom Jones, it is funny and cheeky. Do persevere with the language and enjoy the care with which it is written and its diversity.

I believe that opening sentence basically means " An author should not write in a specialised way, or as a charitable gift to only a few select people who can benefit and appreciate, but rather write for all to enjoy."

Seems to be excellent advice

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The most wasted of all days is one without laughter.
e e cummings (1894 - 1962)

Thank you Gumtree, the first sentence has been the hardest one to understand so far. He was a great writer, astonishing that a book written in 1749 could still be fun to read. Thanks again for your post and I look forward to reading more great books