Reading is an important, yet neglected hobby for society. I know that through experience, reading has changed my viewpoint and mindset of reality. Not only has it shaped my view of reality, but my ability to read and shape reality has changed over time as I have gotten older. I loved the reading from Manguel's book because it was catchy, yet simple, enlightening yet entertaining. Something in Crain's "Twilight of the Books" that was similar text to text was that America has lost its love for reading. Reading is now something kids look at and you "ew". I think asparagus is gross. I think brussel sprouts is gross. I think not washing my hands is gross. I think drinking from the milk carton is gross, but reading? Reading is not gross. Both texts note that reading has progressed over time which is amazing in itself. From the symbols written on the wall to the e-book my friends got for Christmas, reading has come a long way.
Sometimes I read out loud for me to better understand the text. In this situation, I read the text aloud for the reading sitting alone at Starbucks drinking two cups of coffee (which i regretted later). I enjoyed the beginning especially where it talks about reading is essential and a part of everyday life in the fact that we don't just read books. We read people, books, and we observe. All of these dealing with reading. When I read, I go to a different world. I do not like to be bothered because my concentration is broken, and all is lost. Manguel's book notes that when you read you are going to a private place, a different world. I don't mean to sound crazy, but it's true. Your reading is your own world.
So go pick up a book, go to a different place, and I will see you guys around. Tell me about your adventures reading. How has it changed? What have you learned? Also let me challenge you to read other things besides books. Be creative.
Love,
Holly Jo
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Reading books has been such an integral aspect of my life, but the concept of reading people is a new one to me. It is odd that you brought it up. This is the second time in less than a week that it has been brought to my attention that reading people is an excellent way to receive input. I have found it fun and enlightening these past few days to do just that. It is a very different perspective to sit down with just the intention of observing just to learn.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree that when you read you enter your own world. I do not believe for an instant that you are crazy. I absolutely despise that when you are in the middle of a scene and something of the "real world" distracts you. The anticipation that builds up is completely lost. It is entertaining to allow yourself to be completely absorbed by a piece of literature and forget the happenings of the world around you.
P.S. I have to disagree with you...Asparagus is wonderful!! :)