This post may or may not be a rant depending on your definition, but it will be about reading.
I think it’s important to read what you want and to enjoy your reading experience. No, you might not love everything about a certain book, but try to find something you do like.
Even though I read as an escape from real life, reading for me is almost akin to living in a way. I get to live different lives through fictional characters.
Maybe I’m using reading as a metaphor or analogy for living. I’m not too sure. Contrary to popular belief, I’m not an English major.
I just hope readers don’t feel pressured to read what they don’t want to just because everyone else is. Case in point: Herminia and Harry Potter.
I also do my best to finish what I start, especially if I chose to buy the book with the thought I’ll enjoy the story. Or at least, enjoy some aspect of the work. Sometimes, it’s the writing. Other times, I’m a fan of the plot or I’m fond of the characters.
Besides, reading what you enjoy will always win out over the alternative of not enjoying yourself.
Am I ranting or rambling? I’m not even sure at this point. Now that I’m older and wiser, I hope going forward, I will decide what’s best for my interests. Not allow others to decide for me.
So go ahead, read what you want. If you realize you aren’t enjoying the book, read something else.
It’s perfectly fine to pick up another novel if you aren’t enjoying the one you’re on right now.
Reading, like life, is about timing. Perhaps you don’t appreciate a certain book at this exact moment. But maybe in the future, you will.
That might mean you’ll grow out of books. Stories you loved in the past might not have the same effect on you years later. This is okay.
After all, readers should read what their heart desires.
Live your life. Read the books you want. Have fun. Enjoy yourself while reading.
You don’t get that time back.