As a writer, I’ve always believed that reading is the lifeblood of creativity. It’s how we learn, grow, and connect with the world. But lately, I’ve been wondering: have we forgotten how to read? Not the mechanical act of decoding words on a page, but the deeper, more immersive experience of losing ourselves in a story, savoring each sentence, and letting the words stir something within us. In today’s fast-paced, digital-first world, it feels like we’re losing touch with the art of deep reading. And as someone who lives and breathes words, that worries me. Let’s explore this idea together—why it matters, what we’ve lost, and how we might reclaim the joy of reading.
The Shift from Deep Reading to Skimming
I’ll admit it: I’m guilty of skimming articles, scrolling through headlines, and jumping from one piece of content to the next without truly absorbing anything. Sound familiar? The internet has trained us to consume information quickly, prioritizing speed over depth. We’ve become masters of scanning, but at what cost? Deep reading—the kind that requires focus, patience, and imagination—feels increasingly rare. And yet, it’s this kind of reading that enriches our minds and souls.
Why Deep Reading Matters
Deep reading isn’t just about enjoying a good book (though that’s certainly part of it). It’s about engaging with ideas, empathizing with characters, and seeing the world through someone else’s eyes. It’s about the slow, deliberate process of understanding and reflection. As a writer, I know that the best stories stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. They change the way you think, feel, and see the world. But that kind of transformation can’t happen if we’re only skimming the surface.
The Role of Technology
There’s no denying that technology has revolutionized the way we read. E-books, audiobooks, and online articles have made literature more accessible than ever. But they’ve also changed the way we engage with text. Notifications, ads, and endless links pull our attention in a million directions, making it harder to focus on a single narrative. Even when we do read, we’re often multitasking—checking our phones, watching TV, or thinking about our to-do lists. It’s no wonder deep reading feels like a relic of the past.
What We’ve Lost
When we lose the habit of deep reading, we lose more than just the pleasure of a good book. We lose the ability to concentrate, to think critically, and to empathize. Studies have shown that deep reading activates different parts of the brain than skimming, fostering creativity, empathy, and emotional intelligence. It’s a workout for the mind, and without it, our cognitive and emotional muscles can atrophy.
Reclaiming the Joy of Reading
So, how do we rediscover the art of deep reading in a world that’s constantly pulling us in different directions? Here are a few ideas that have worked for me:
- Set Aside Dedicated Reading Time: Carve out a specific time each day for reading, free from distractions. Even 20 minutes can make a difference.
- Choose Print Over Screens: There’s something about holding a physical book that encourages deeper engagement. If that’s not an option, try using an e-reader without internet access.
- Slow Down: Resist the urge to rush through a book. Savor each sentence, and give yourself permission to pause and reflect.
- Join a Book Club: Sharing your thoughts with others can deepen your understanding and appreciation of a book.
- Revisit Old Favorites: Sometimes, returning to a beloved book can reignite your love of reading.
A Writer’s Plea
As a writer, I pour my heart into every word I write, hoping to connect with readers on a deeper level. But that connection can only happen if readers are willing to meet me halfway—to slow down, to engage, to truly read. So, I’ll leave you with this: the next time you pick up a book or an article, take a moment to breathe, to focus, and to immerse yourself in the words. Because reading isn’t just a skill—it’s an art, a gift, and a way of seeing the world. And it’s worth preserving.
What do you think? Have we forgotten how to read, or is deep reading simply evolving in the digital age? I’d love to hear your thoughts. After all, the conversation is just as important as the words on the page.
