A History Of Reading definitely exceeded my expectations. Where I expected a cut and dry essay on the evolution of reading, I found a surprisingly relatable exploration of the pastime of reading. I found myself nodding and smiling in a agreement with as I read The Last Page. Manguel's description of learning to read as a child was spot on. It managed to put into words something I could never actually explain to others, but understood within myself. Reading has always been something more than a hobby to me. It's been my gateway to the rest of the world, and I don't know what I would do without it. As Manguel said, "Reading, almost as much as breathing, is our essential function."
The rest of the chapters were extremely interesting as well. It's easy to think that the way we do things is how it has always been, and forever will be. Reading about the advent of silent reading was an eye-opener for me. One never thinks that something as simple as reading silently to yourself could be a big deal, but learning that the Church authorities didn't like it for fear of people forming their own opinions shows that nothing is ever as simple as it seems. It makes feel even more lucky that I have the ability to read, as well as the freedom to form my own opinion on whatever I choose to read.
Overall, the reading was great. It reminded me that no matter how solitary the act of reading may be, I am never truly alone.
I think it's interesting how the act of relating to books can help us relate to each other. As English majors, there is a certain expectation that we have a love of books, so I think that a lot of us have the same early feelings about reading. What was interesting to me about Manguel's story is his very early link between the letters themselves and the word. "boy" was formed by a torso and arm, a round head, and dangling legs, just as a boy is. While I cannot remember making this conscious sort of link myself, I'm sure there was something that made certain words make sense.
ReplyDeleteI was also really intrigued by the development of silent reading and its early indications. To think of silent reading as a scandal is almost humorous! But when we put the "secretive" nature of silent reading next to the concept that avid readers are more likely to establish and defend their opinions and make a difference, reading is nothing short of scandalous! I'm glad you raised the point that we have the freedom not only to read, but also to form our own opinions about what we read. What a blessing it is to live in a country where being "scandalous" and thinking for ourselves is okay.
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