Reading for Joy
If we take a moment to explore the associations we have with reading, many of us likely view it as a tool for learning productivity. This makes sense, given that from primary school, we are assigned reading material for grades and tests. But what if reading could be a resource that does more than just teach us?
When we read for joy, we are taking a radical stance against the values of capitalism. We realize that reading does not have to be a tedious chore, but instead a journey, an exploration, a fun time, a grounding experience, and so much more.
Why is reading because we want to so important? Societal pressures often blur the line between what we want to read and what we think we should read in our spare time. The pressure to be productive can warp our relationship with reading into one that is obligatory. While gaining knowledge can be important for challenging oppressive systems, we can easily lose touch with reading for personal pleasure––and lose a valuable resource that can help us recharge away from institutional expectations.
Below are some ways reading for joy can have a positive impact on our lives:
Engaging with multiple perspectives: By reading something outside our own experience, we can challenge our prejudices, thoughts, and ideas. We can take a step back and reflect, in our own space, at our own pace, and not have to keep up with anyone but ourselves. We can use reading as a tool to help our introspection journeys––wherever they may lead.
Exploring multiple realities: Existing in the modern world can often feel bleak and overwhelming. Reading allows us to immerse ourselves in and imagine worlds that are wildly different from our own. This can help us escape, cope, and come up with better ways of living and relating to each other.
Resting and recharging: While we often think of resting as passive, the most rejuvenating type of rest is active: a fun challenge we can give our brain that has nothing to do with work. That means curling up with a good book can do more to recharge us than streaming our favorite show or taking a nap!
There are no rules when it comes to reading for joy. We have been conditioned to believe there are “right” and “wrong” ways to read, but the reality is - you can do whatever you want.
Did you start reading a book and not enjoying it as much as you thought? Stop reading it and start something new. Do you get bored of reading one book at a time? Read three, four, or however many you want. Slow reader? That’s okay too. Ultimately, reading is a dynamic personal journey. We can empower ourselves to make choices that work for us.
Reading is a choice we can make for ourselves. There is no inherent value, meaning, or responsibility associated with reading. There is no pressure, no stakes, but rather many avenues by which we can experience radical joy, happiness, and delight. After a lifetime of being forced to read, it can feel empowering to take back our relationship with the written word.
What do you plan on reading for pleasure?