When I think of a classic then I think of something that holds true regardless of time. This book is a bit outdated (it was written in 1930). A third of the book is concerning the analysis of mining and railroad companies.Plus the book was very rudimentary in its writings. Not really a book on speculation as an introductary book for a 1930's investor. In my opinion not worthy of the term "Classic"If you want a true classic read "Reminences of a Stock Operator" This is a true classic with truths that hold true today as well as 1923 when it was written.