It's a sad fact of being a writer that we sometimes don't take the same time to read for pleasure - or maybe that only applies to some of us. I make sure I read every evening, both the current print choice and kindle choice, but I often think back to the days when I liked nothing more than settling down with my book in preference to any other activity. It's especially difficult if you enjoy TV dramas and films for the visual aspect of the story as much as I do!
But this last week, I succumbed to a nasty fluish cold virus and and my gallavanting was curtailed: no writing group, shopping trips or morning coffees (though I managed to sneak one of those in with a friend by Friday, and hope she didn't mind my weird hoarse voice). I certainly watched a few films, but couldn't be bothered with the computer or Internet as much. So I really enjoyed getting stuck into reading two different novels and it reminded me how good it is to have this means of escape whenever we feel like it. From now on, I'm aiming to fill even more of my time with reading - and I'm already convinced it will make me a better writer in the end.
Rosemary
16 comments:
I so agree, Rosemary. I always read in bed before I go to sleep but I'd love more time just to sit and enjoy a book for pleasure. If I read during the day I feel guilty because I'm not working - maybe I should consider it research and allow myself a couple of hours in the afternoon!
I can't imagine even a book-free day. Trains, waiting rooms, last thing at night in bed....it's books all the way!
I do hope you're feeling better Rosemary, I also succumbed to the dreaded cold virus last week, and like you have made the most of 'reading time' I'm also someone who reads several books at a time. Currently listening to an audio book, reading romance on the Kindle, and enjoying some non-fiction too!
Isn't it a shame we feel guilty about reading though?
There never seem to be enough spare hours for reading. I would happily spend all day with my nose in a book if I didn't write. I love reading in bed, but wish I didn't keep falling asleep!
I hope your nasty virus has all gone now, Rosemary - at least it gave you time to curl up with books. It really is the best occupation of them all. xx
Reading for research is an excellent idea, Mary!
Yes, I always have something on the go for these odd times, Frances.
Thanks, Maria - it's taking longer than I expected but nearly there! Hope you're a lot better.
Thank you, Joanne - sometimes only a book will do for escape!
That retched flu virus! I'm just recovering from it myself and like you, Rosemary, I made the most of my duvet time with a good book; it beats the meds every time :) I do hope you are feeling better. All the very best.
I've taken to reading first thing in the morning, before I get out of bed. It really sets me up for the day.
I did get out of the habit of reading for a little while, thinking I was too busy. It's a mistake I've since put right.
I love my books, and I find it hard to walk past a book shop, any book shop,without going in for a browse. But as you say, Rosemary, finding time in our busy lives to just settle down and read is not always easy. I read in bed every night. Couldn't get off to sleep otherwise.
Thanks, Nicola - I do hope you're recovering too!
That's a good idea, Julia!
It's easy to do, Patsy.
Me too, Rena - I couldn't sleep without reading!
I adore reading too. Like Julia, I read first thing in the morning after fetching a nice cup of tea, usually a fruity one so it doesn't matter if it gets cold when I get enthralled by a plot!
I also feel guilty if I read in the day, unless I'm on holiday, of course. My biggest fear is running out of books to read when in a foreign country. Thank goodness for my Kindle!
Hope you're feeling better now, Rosemary.
Thanks, Jean - much improved! Interesting that you read in the morning too - and yes, the kindle is great for always having a book handy!
Thanks, Jean - much improved! Interesting that you read in the morning too - and yes, the kindle is great for always having a book handy!
Interesting post. I also came down with a cold last week. It must've hopped across the pond. I find I enjoy having a non fiction book and a fiction story to read. If both are fiction, I start mixing up the characters, especially when I'm weary and reading before bed time.
Hi JQ - thanks for commenting. Hope you're feeling a lot better by now!
Hi JQ - thanks for commenting. Hope you're feeling a lot better by now!
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