Here's a breakdown of Faber's meaning:
* The danger of information overload: In a world where books are outlawed, Montag's initial reaction is to gather as many as he can. Faber recognizes this as potentially overwhelming and ineffective.
* The importance of critical thinking: Faber believes that simply having books isn't enough. People need to learn how to think critically and analyze what they read.
* The need for quality and meaning: Faber emphasizes the importance of selecting books that offer wisdom, depth, and a range of perspectives. He wants Montag to focus on the books that will truly stimulate his mind and challenge his understanding of the world.
This line also hints at the limitations of the book-burning society in Fahrenheit 451:
* The loss of knowledge: By focusing solely on quantity, the society has lost the ability to critically engage with ideas and understand the nuances of history, literature, and culture.
* The suppression of individual thought: The pursuit of knowledge is replaced by a culture of mindless entertainment and conformity, leaving individuals intellectually stunted and vulnerable.
In essence, Faber's line underscores the importance of quality over quantity in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding. It highlights the dangers of mindless information consumption and the need for critical thinking to navigate a world saturated with information.