The interest most worth awakening in pupils is not only direct but
_permanent_. Hawthorne's Golden Touch embodies a simple classic truth
in such transparent form that its reperusal is always a pleasure. In
the same way, to observe the autumn woods and flowers, the birds and
insects, with sympathy and delight, leaves a lasting pleasure in the
memory. The best kind of knowledge is that which lays a permanent hold
upon the affections. The best method of learning is that which opens
up any field of study with a growing interest. To awaken a child's
permanent interest in any branch of knowledge is to accomplish much for
his character and usefulness. An enduring interest in American
history, for example, is valuable in the best sense, no matter what the
method of instruction. Any companion or book that teaches us to
observe the birds with growing interest and pleasure has done what a
teacher could scarcely do better. This kind of knowledge becomes a
living, generative culture influence. Knowledge which contains no
springs of interest is like faith divorced from works. Information and
discipline may be gained in education without any lasting interest, but
the one who uses such knowledge and discipline is only a machine.
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