Rediscovering the Lost Art of Reading
October 23, 2024
Writer: Lila Raff
Editor: Ava Londa
In a fast-paced world where entertainment is often served in quick, digestible bites, reading for pleasure seems to have become a forgotten hobby. What once was a beloved pastime is now seen as a chore, relegated to required school readings or professional development texts. But because reading provides a blissful escape from reality, why has it fallen by the wayside? And how can we revive it in the digital age?
Historically, reading has been a popular and accessible pastime. It wasn’t long ago that books provided entertainment, comfort, and an escape from daily life. Whether curled up in a quiet corner or rapidly flipping through the pages of a novel, the joy found in the immersive experience of storytelling has been swapped for quick bytes of technological entertainment. Reading used to be more than just a task—it was an adventure of the mind, an opportunity to explore different perspectives and an intellectual escape that required only time and imagination.
Despite the growing reliance on digital media, the profound benefits of reading still remain. One of the advantages is its capacity to engage the mind more deeply than other forms of entertainment. Unlike watching TV or scrolling through social media, reading requires active participation; it demands concentration, visualization, and comprehension. This mental engagement not only stimulates creativity but also improves focus and cognitive function. Reading enhances empathy by placing us in the shoes of characters, allowing us to experience their emotions and conflicts firsthand.
I remember reading To Kill a Mockingbird and feeling deeply connected to Scout's curiosity and innocence, while also gaining a new understanding of what it's like to see the world through someone else's, like Atticus Finch's, moral compass. On the other hand, reading The Great Gatsby made me feel distant from Gatsby’s obsessive pursuit of wealth and status, yet it challenged me to think about how deeply people can be affected by societal pressures. These experiences allow us to better understand people who think, feel, and live differently from us, broadening our view of humanity.
For many, reading is framed as a task associated with tests, essays, and analysis rather than a source of pleasure. The pressure to read “the right kind” of literature, rather than simply enjoying a story for its own sake, further detracts from the joy of reading. When reading becomes associated with obligations and academic rigor, it’s easy to understand why so many people grow up viewing it as a chore rather than a leisure activity. To separate reading from feeling like homework choose books that genuinely interest you rather than ones assigned solely for academic purposes. By setting aside time to read for enjoyment, we can rediscover the pleasure of getting lost in a story.
Rediscovering the joy of reading can be easy with a few small changes. Start by choosing shorter books or light genres that genuinely capture your interest, rather than feeling obligated to tackle lengthy or "serious" reads. Dedicate specific times, free from screen distractions, to enjoy your book—whether it's just 15 minutes before bed or an hour on the weekend. Exploring new genres, such as fantasy, memoirs, or historical fiction, can help reignite your passion if you feel burnt out. Joining a book club can enhance the experience by offering new perspectives and motivating regular reading. Most importantly, reclaim reading as an act of self-care—like a warm bath or a cup of tea, it can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to unwind and recharge.
In a sea of endless distractions, allotting time to read allows us to slow down, reflect, and tap into our creativity. As we become more aware of the importance of mental health and mindfulness, reading stands out as an accessible and enjoyable way to nurture both. Though it may seem like a lost art, reading can be revived—and its rewards are well worth the effort. So, the next time you find yourself mindlessly scrolling through your phone, consider picking up a book instead. It might just be the start of a beautiful rediscovery.
