Do not suppose, however, that I intend to urge a diet of classics on anybody. I have seen such diets at work. I have known people who have actually read all, or almost all, the guaranteed Hundred Best Books. God save us from reading nothing but the best.

In this quote, Robertson Davies humorously critiques the idea of only reading classics or the so-called Hundred Best Books. He acknowledges that some people have read these celebrated works, but he warns against the idea of limiting one’s reading solely to what is considered literary or highbrow. By saying, "God save us from reading nothing but the best," Davies suggests that such a narrow focus on "the best" can stifle the joy and variety that come from exploring a wider range of books, genres, and ideas.

Davies' statement points to the potential danger of becoming too obsessed with reading only those books deemed as cultural standards or must-reads. While these classics are valuable, he implies that a balanced reading diet should also include books that might not be as universally acclaimed but still offer meaningful or enjoyable experiences. Literature is meant to be an expansive and diverse field, and restricting oneself to only the best can lead to missing out on other enriching experiences and personal discoveries.

The origin of this perspective likely comes from Davies' own experience as a writer and literary critic, where he saw firsthand the limitations of narrowly defining what makes a book worth reading. As an advocate for a broader, more inclusive view of literature, Davies appreciated works that might not fit neatly into the categories of high culture but still contributed to the richness of human experience and storytelling.

Ultimately, Davies’ quote is a reminder that reading should be an open-minded and pleasurable activity, not a rigid adherence to a prescribed list of classics. It encourages readers to explore books from various genres and perspectives, recognizing that the value of literature is found not only in the so-called "best" works but also in the diversity and breadth of what is available.