Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
* "Books and friends must be few": This implies that you should be selective about what you choose to read and who you choose to befriend. Don't just pick up any book or befriend anyone just because it's convenient.
* "but good": This emphasizes the importance of quality over quantity. Choose books that are enriching and intellectually stimulating. Choose friends who are supportive, trustworthy, and inspiring.
This saying can be interpreted in several ways:
* Quality over Quantity: A few truly valuable books and friends can have a much greater impact on your life than a large collection of unremarkable ones.
* Focus and Intentionality: By being selective, you can ensure that you are investing your time and energy in things that are truly worthwhile.
* Avoiding Clutter: Having too many books and friends can lead to mental clutter and make it difficult to focus on the things that matter most.
Ultimately, the saying encourages us to prioritize quality and meaning in our relationships with both books and friends.