Reading

Paper Summary:

This essay discusses several famous authors' opinions on reading. It discusses the question of should we read or should we go out and live and learn from those experiences. It defines the term reading and analyzes the amount of readers in today's school system. Finally, the author states his positive opinion about reading and the things that can be learned by reading.

From the Paper:

"Reading is an activity that many people take for granted. Here in America it is easy for us to take for granted a fully stocked library, or access to hundreds of classic works through our computers. Yet, I wonder how many people actually take advantage of these rich opportunities that they have? With all of the study guides and assorted methods of getting around reading, why do it? Is something written in a book really more important than getting out and living life?
Henry Thoreau took on that very thought back in 1845 when he began living in Massachusetts in his cabin on Walden Pond. Thoreau was very thoroughly educated before he took this break from city life, yet he speaks often about how this "residence was more favorable, not only to thought, but to serious reading". (65) I can't imagine being as smart as Thoreau, yet feeling like there was still something to read out there. And the reason that he gives for wanting to read, the reason that everyone should want to read, is that "their nature and destiny are interesting to all alike." (64) In other words, the classics of literature are all great reading material."

More papers on Reading:

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• Essay # 89940 : "Benefits of Reading"
• Article Review # 32501 : "Pre-School Reading Skills and Reading Achievement"

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