Weekend Read

Day 6 - One Week of Writing Challenge.

Day 6

The Power of Reading

Reading and writing are two sides of the same coin, each feeding into the other, creating a loop of inspiration, learning, and growth. There’s a saying that great writers are also great readers. This weekend, as I settle into my reading nook with a curated collection of books, I am reminded of the fundamental importance of reading books.

When I’m reading a book, I’m not just reading words; I am entering a world crafted by another mind. Whether it’s the psychological depth of Fyodor Dostoevsky, the philosophical musings of Fernando Pessoa, the intricate sentences of William Faulkner, the sharp wit of Nikolai Gogol, or the evocative prose of Clarice Lispector, each page offers a new perspective, a fresh way of seeing the world. From the existential depths of Crime and Punishment to the fantastical satire of The Master and Margarita, each book is a doorway to a new world, a new way of thinking.

For a writer, reading books is invaluable. It is easy to get trapped in our own voices, our own ways of telling a story. But when we read, we’re reminded that there are countless ways to paint a scene, to convey an emotion, to shape a narrative.

Jane Austen once wrote, “The person, be it gentleman or lady, who has not pleasure in a good novel, must be intolerably stupid.” This witty statement highlights the simple yet profound joy that comes from losing oneself to a well-crafted story. It says that reading is not just a literary exercise but a source of deep pleasure and inspiration.

Photo by Christin Hume on Unsplash

One of the most exciting aspects of reading is the way it can spark creativity. A single sentence can set off a chain of ideas, can give rise to new topics to explore, or can even be the start of an entirely new story. And this is where the line between reader and writer blurs.

Fernando Pessoa, in his Book of Disquiet, beautifully expresses the role of literature when he writes, “I am nothing. I shall always be nothing. I cannot wish to be anything. Apart from this, I have within me all the dreams of the world.” This reflection on the inner world of the writer tells how literature allows us to explore the vast landscapes of our imaginations.

I believe that reading is a crucial part of the creative process. It’s a way to refuel, to gather inspiration, and to remind ourselves of the sheer joy of storytelling.

As Ernest Hemingway famously wrote in A Moveable Feast, 'There is no friend as loyal as a book.' This sentiment holds particularly true for writers, as the bond with books extends beyond mere companionship. Books serve as enduring sources of learning and inspiration, lighting the way through the often solitary path of writing.

A little bit about what I'm reading this weekend — This weekend, my reading list includes a mix of genre and style. There’s the imaginative landscape of Umberto Eco and the contemporary insights of Jenny Erpenbeck. I am halfway through Baudolino by Umberto Eco. It's a journey through a fantastical medical world where reality and myth intertwine, it is one of the novels revealing Eco’s power of storytelling. Kairos by Jenny Erpenbeck is a contemporary novel where Erpenbeck explores the themes of love, power, and betrayal, drawing on the Greek concept of ‘kairos’ which refers to a critical moment.

So, What are you reading this weekend?

Here are a few of the books that have captured my heart, and I’ll always recommend them to anyone looking for a great read. These works have left a lasting impression on me, offering not just entertainment, but deep insights and memorable characters that stay with you long after the final page is turned.

"Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoevsky - A profound exploration of morality, guilt, and redemption, this novel delves into the mind of a man torn between his beliefs and his actions.

"The Book of Disquiet" by Fernando Pessoa - A masterpiece of introspection and existential reflection, perfect for readers who enjoy diving deep into the mind.

"Light in August" by William Faulkner - A complex narrative set in the American South, Faulkner’s novel explores identity, race, and the human condition with his signature poetic style.

"The Master and Margarita" by Mikhail Bulgakov - A brilliant blend of satire, fantasy, and political commentary, this novel is a must-read for those who enjoy stories with multiple layers of meaning.

"Emma" by Jane Austen - A delightful tale of matchmaking and social dynamics, Austen’s novel is both humorous and insightful, offering a sharp critique of the society of her time.

As you immerse yourself in these or any other books this weekend, remember that “Great writers are indeed great readers, and the best stories are often born from the words of others.”

Happy Reading!