The Pleasure of Reading
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Not all that we read gives us pleasure. However busy a man may be, he takes time off to read the newspaper and important letters. This is for information, not for pleasure.
When we have some leisure (free time), we may pick up a book and read. Then we are in silent communication with the author. We listen to the author’s views; we come to know his likes, dislikes, opinions and choice of words to express himself. The author even gives us instructions and warnings. The author may present before us (readers) some life situations through the characters in his book. He employs the characters to speak on his behalf. Thus by reading a book, we enrich ourselves in several ways and silently, in our hearts, praise and appreciate the author’s ability.
We are free to read whatever we want, but a wise person will choose what is good for him. Reading jokes and comics only amuses us but does not enrich our intellect. When we read a well-written play, we get engrossed in the behavior of the characters, and the author is forgotten. We project ourselves into the personality of the characters, and silently go through pleasure or pain or suspense.
When we read a poem, we enjoy the imagery created by the poet, besides the musical and rhythmic effect created by the choice of fitting words. To enjoy a book thoroughly, we should read the original work of the author, and not the abridged version or notes on it. In any language the pleasures of reading are the same.
The modern generation is so burdened with studies and other activities that they have no time to enjoy the pleasures of reading. Love of reading should be inculcated right from childhood. At least an hour per week should be allotted in the school timetable for reading library books.
Unfortunately, today, schoolchildren do not even read their textbooks. They read notes and memories answers from guides. The author is altogether forgotten, so where are the pleasures of reading? Children are forced to depend on notes and guides to get through are examination.
We observe that today, neither adults nor children have any patience to read books which are worth reading. They would rather sit in an easy, lazy posture and watch the television screen. Without any effort on their part, they get entertainment. They do not realize the benefits they are missing. Hence it is very essential to make general reading compulsory from a very young age.