Read Slowly And Finish More Books - How To Appreciate Difficult Books

Summary

The speaker challenges the notion that speed-reading or skimming summaries equates to being well-read or enlightened. They advocate for the joy of slowing down and deeply engaging with literature, emphasizing the importance of daily reading routines. By taking the time to savor each page, readers can gain a richer understanding and appreciation of the classics, transforming them into true connoisseurs of literature.

Takeaways

• 📚 The script challenges the notion that reading a large number of books makes one the most educated or enlightened person.
• 🔍 It critiques the trend of using apps, summaries, and videos to quickly digest information, suggesting that this approach may sacrifice the depth of understanding and enjoyment of literature.
• 🤔 The speaker asks a crucial question about the purpose of literature, implying that it's more than just accumulating facts and knowledge.
• 🧐 The script suggests that the internet and summaries provide only a 'flat snapshot' of literature, lacking the depth and psychological revelation that comes from in-depth reading.
• 📈 The speaker emphasizes the importance of reading not just for breadth, but also for the depth of understanding and the joy derived from engaging with literature.
• 📖 The speaker admits to being a slow reader, highlighting that reading speed is not the key to being well-read but rather the quality and routine of reading.
• 🕒 The importance of daily reading habits is stressed, with the speaker sharing their personal routine of reading for an hour or two each day.
• 🔑 The script suggests that routines can help overcome resistance and excuses about not having time to read, making reading a regular part of one's life.
• 😌 The speaker encourages readers to slow down and enjoy the process of reading, rather than rushing through books for the sake of quantity.
• 📚 The script promotes the idea that reading should be a source of pleasure and self-therapy, not just an exercise in accumulating knowledge.
• 🗓️ The speaker advises patience and a longer time horizon for reading difficult books, suggesting that spreading out the reading over months can lead to a deeper appreciation.

Q & A

What is the main issue discussed in the video script regarding people's approach to reading books?

The main issue discussed is the tendency to rush through books using summaries, apps, and videos to condense the reading experience, which may result in losing the deeper pleasure and understanding that comes from reading at a slower pace.

What is the speaker's view on the use of apps that allow you to read a book in 15 minutes?

The speaker is critical of such apps, suggesting that they may provide only a superficial understanding of a book and miss the deeper insights that come from a thorough reading.

What does the speaker suggest is lost when we try to condense the time spent on reading?

The speaker suggests that the pleasure of slowing down and the deeper understanding of the material are lost when we try to condense the time spent on reading.

What is the speaker's opinion on the idea that reading a large number of books makes one the most educated or enlightened?

The speaker argues that quantity of reading does not equate to enlightenment or education, and that the quality of engagement with the material is more important.

How does the speaker describe their own reading habits?

The speaker describes themselves as an extremely slow reader who enjoys taking time to savor difficult books, often reading only a few pages at a time.

What is the secret to the speaker's ability to read so many books despite being a slow reader?

The secret is the establishment of a daily reading routine, where the speaker dedicates time each day to reading, making it a consistent part of their life.

What does the speaker suggest as a way to overcome the resistance to slow down and enjoy reading?

The speaker suggests establishing a routine that removes excuses and resistance, allowing one to discover the enjoyment of reading at a slower pace.

Why does the speaker recommend not rushing through reading a difficult book?

The speaker recommends not rushing because it allows for a deeper psychological revelation and true joy to be derived from the reading experience.

What is the speaker's advice for someone who wants to become a great connoisseur of classical literature?

The speaker advises patience, a broader time horizon, and making reading a mandatory daily practice to develop a deep sense of appreciation for literature.

How does the speaker define the true satisfaction gained from reading literature?

The speaker defines true satisfaction as the deep understanding and emotional connection that cannot be put into words, which comes from engaging with literature at a deeper level.