The Impact of Required vs Pleasure Reading on Literary Discoveries

As I reflect on my educational journey, I have realized that my literary experiences were heavily influenced by both required and voluntary reading. This article explores the impact of these two different types of reading on my literary discoveries and appreciation.

High School Adventures

In high school, I was exposed to a diverse range of literature, including mandatory and voluntary reading. While some works were required, others were enjoyable and memorable, such as George Orwell's Fahrenheit 451 and J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye. Notably, one such pleasure read, Animal Farm, by George Orwell, profoundly impacted me. The story's critique of totalitarianism and its satirical portrayal of power dynamics resonated with me, becoming a favorite and a source of enduring enjoyment.

Another significant book I discovered during high school was Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart. My high school experience included a global sampling of literature, making Things Fall Apart an essential read. Achebe, a masterful storyteller, immerses the reader in the pre-colonial era of Nigeria through the life of the protagonist, Okonkwo. Despite his flaws, Okonkwo's internal struggle against his violent nature and the cultural expectations that he embodies creates a rich pathos. The book's memorable title and profound exploration of a civilization on the brink of disappearance made it a remarkable work that, at times, felt prophetic of future events.

College Influences

In college, the reading list shifted to accommodate a broader range of voices and perspectives. One such book was Jonathan Swift's Gulliver's Travels. Unlike Things Fall Apart, which focuses on a specific cultural context, Gulliver's Travels offers a satirical lens on human nature and societal norms. Swift's work is a dense exploration of humanantry, self-seriousness, and the absurdity of social customs and regulations.

Gulliver's Travels is not simply a story of a man becoming a giant in Lilliput; it is a critical examination of the foibles and follies that define human society. The book challenges us to question the arbitrary nature of many of our rules and customs, prompting us to reconsider what we take for granted. Swift's prose, while dense, rewards the reader with a deep sense of enlightenment, even if the journey of understanding is at times challenging.

Reflections on Reading

Reflecting on my experiences with required and pleasure reading, I can see how each type of reading has contributed to my literary journey. Required reading, such as Fahrenheit 451, Things Fall Apart, and Gulliver's Travels, exposed me to different genres, themes, and cultural perspectives. These works often offer critical insights and explanations of complex social issues, fostering a deeper understanding of the world and humanity.

On the other hand, pleasure reading, such as Animal Farm, allows for a more personal and engaging connection with the text. These reads can be more memorable and transformative, as they resonate with the reader's personal experiences and emotions. The combination of required and pleasure reading enriches the reading experience, enhancing both knowledge and enjoyment.

Ultimately, the most impactful literary discoveries often stem from a blend of required and voluntary reading. They are the books that transport us across time and cultures, challenge our perspectives, and fulfill our inner desire for both knowledge and pleasure.