The Art of Reading . . . and Writing
Reading is a privilege. It’s learned easily for some, difficult for others, and routinely for still others. Reading is also a necessity. The unique thing about the results of reading is that it can be an art.
Wikipedia gives this interesting thought in the definition of art: “There is no generally agreed definition of what constitutes art, and its interpretation has varied greatly throughout history and across cultures.”
Reading inspires visual pictures both good and horrific and all that come in between. It transposes the majesty or decimation of foreign (to the reader) places. Reading can make dialogue heard in our minds. In other words, reading can produce visceral results – like art – or minimal reactions – also like some visual art is to us as observers.
If we’re talking technical reading, for those who use precision-based manuals in their professions, reading can either be mundane or exhilarating.
If we’re talking for pleasure, novels, aka fiction, can satisfy the most thirsty of souls. From the more obscure genres to the more recognized, there is literally a novel for everyone out there in reader-land.
Which brings us to the art of writing. Creating words to satisfy whatever need is present when reading is indeed an art. There is superb skill necessary to write a serious technical book or manual. In order to make it understood, for whatever level of education it’s written, requires precision and the artful use of language. Writing a non-fiction book, i.e. biography, autobiography, devotional, true stories, etc., encourages the enticing use of words to mesmerize the reader and keep them involved.
Perhaps there is nothing more demanding in the art of writing than the ability to put the use of words together so near-perfectly as to urge the reader to pursue the story that waits for them to continue.
Whether it is a fast-paced thriller, a meandering tale of the past, a heart-pounding suspense or mystery, an extraordinary science-fiction adventure, a galivant into fantasy, or a truly moving love story that goes deep into the characters, the reader can select one and make it their favorite – or read any or all genres that interest them. There are literally millions from which to choose!
For those who’ve had a difficult time with reading due to innumerable issues, reliance on audio media have provided relief for some without sacrificing the inspirational adventures provided from non-fiction and fiction.
As a novelist and a reader, nothing satisfies my heart like creating with words and reading those created by others.
Published in the July issue of Enumclaw living magazine.
Father, thank you for words, writing, and reading. Thank you for the process and results. Thank you for the stories. Apart from you, I can do nothing. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.
Into the Fire 
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