Times of cultural misery are the most conducive to immersing oneself in great eras, great works, and great achievements. This is because everything in them stimulates an interest accentuated by contrast, leaving no doubt as to where attention should be directed. In truth, even in the most prolific times, the portion that survives is small, and therefore the portion that distracts is large. There is, of course, a special feeling that comes from novelty; but perhaps this feeling diverts attention from where it could be focused much more profitably.