Re-reading Harold Bloom’s How To Read & Why brought to mind the profound answer to why we read. 'Because it matters,' I thought, but Professor Bloom's insights went deeper. He suggests that the true purpose of reading is to uncover and enrich the self, a journey that leads to profound personal growth. This journey is not just about acquiring knowledge, but about understanding oneself and the world around us, and how we can grow and change through the books we read.
George R.R. Martin once beautifully expressed, 'A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one.' This profound statement not only encapsulates the transformative power of reading but also inspires us to embark on countless journeys through the pages of a book, each one offering a new perspective and a new life to live.
Many book lovers write about their lifelong love of books. I didn’t start my love affair with books until I finished college. I remember a family of one of my Uncles and what seemed to be an absolute devotion to books when the cousins were growing up. The books I saw in the girl’s rooms during our visits over the years impressed me.
I recall seeing Prince Harry interview President Obama. He asked him many questions, some of which needed to be more significant. Briefs of boxers? Obama said that was off-limits. Good for him. Who cares?
Wouldn't it be fascinating to delve into the books that were essential and of interest to Obama or Prince Harry? What about the books that influenced Gandhi, Lincoln, Putin, and maybe even my father and his father? The diversity of these influences is a testament to the rich and varied world of literature, waiting to be explored and experienced.
The books that have left a lasting imprint on our lives are as diverse as the experiences that shape us. They change and evolve, just as we do. Some books may always hold a special place in our hearts, while new ones continue to enrich our perspectives. This evolving relationship with books is a reflection of our own growth and change, a journey worth reflecting on.
Over the last few years, several books have left a lasting imprint on my life. 'American Wolf ', 'Nothing to Envy ', 'The Graveyard Book ', 'The Heart ', and 'Fairy Tale' are just a few that come to mind. These books have not only enriched my perspectives but have also influenced my personal growth. They have taught me about resilience, empathy, and the power of storytelling.
