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Writer's pictureChristopher Spicer

Why Bother with Books?

Updated: Sep 18



As people begin to surf the Internet rather than purchase a book, some are questioning their future. In a recent survey carried out by the charity Booktrust, it was concluded that ‘more than half adults (56%) said they think the internet and computers will replace books in the next twenty years. Almost half of those questioned (45%) said they prefer watching TV and DVD’s to reading a novel’ More than one-third (36%) say they often start a book but get bored, while a similar proportion (35%) say they cannot find time to read’ [1] Whatever the future, the present reality is, bookshops and publishers are struggling with sales amid the COVID-19 pandemic. All of which might cause writers and readers alike to ask, ‘Why Bother with Books?’


Thankfully there are still a number of book-lovers who not only appreciate the tactile value of a book, but believe that ‘people who read regularly are more satisfied with life, happier and more likely to feel their life is worthwhile.’ [2] Within this group of diehard literature lovers, we have the so-called ‘book-addicts’, people for whom a well-stocked bookshop is as irresistible as a sweet-shop to a child. Drawn to the purveyor of the printed page, these book aficionados will spend hours scanning the shelves to find their next reading fix - if only then to add their latest purchase to the ever-increasing pile of must-read tomes.


As a novice author wanting to encourage other would-be authors, I have come to believe that readers are a rare breed. Like grownups messing around with water, potential readers seem to fall into one of three categories: Skimmer, Swimmer or Soaker.


Skimmers, like their stone-bouncing counterparts, have little interest in venturing into the water. For them, reading is a carefree exercise, a momentary means of light-hearted entertainment. Wanting maximum bounce for their buck, they will more than likely judge a book by its cover. For the few seconds a book is in their hands, they will skip read the highlights and skim through its contents, before quickly returning it to the bookshelf. Easily distracted by other more interesting exercises, Skimmers experience little of the lasting effect gained by submerging themselves into a literary masterpiece.

Swimmers, throw themselves into a book, they dive in without a moment’s hesitation. For them reading is a mental exercise that will improve their personal well-being. Submerging themselves into the environment created by an author, Swimmers are totally committed to the personal benefits the time spent reading can bring. Occasionally coming up for air, good Swimmers will enjoy the ebb and flow of a good story, staying with a book as long as they find it personally beneficial.


While Swimmers are good, what most authors need are Soakers. More subdued and contemplative in their approach to reading, Soakers want the full effect of their reading experience. Marinating their minds in the material, Soakers will underline the text, make marginal notes and revisit certain key chapters. Their sole purpose in submerging themselves into the warm waters of a literary enterprise is the thought of experiencing a life-changing moment. With mandatory pen in hand, Soakers set out on each reading expedition fully expecting a ‘eureka moment’ that will radically affect what they believe and ultimately how they behave.


Authors create pools into which Swimmers will exercise their little grey cells

and Soakers will experience a eureka moment

If not for fame and fortune, why do authors do what they do? Spending hours poring over their manuscript, with numerous re-writes and endless push backs from publishers, authors do what they do to inform, inspire or instruct. Author’s cannot stop what they are doing, for like the Old Testament prophet Jeremiah, they have ‘a fire … burning in their bones,’ a story they are ‘worn out trying to hold … in.’ [3]


Creative writers are passionate people, the forerunners of a spiritual renaissance we so desperately need. To these much-needed individuals I would say:

· Don’t delay, pursue your passion

· Don’t be distracted, find the time to write

· Don’t be discouraged by the people, objects or events

· Don’t be dictated to by fads and fashion, God’s truth is timeless

· Don’t be denied your opportunity to proclaim what burns within

In this present creative renaissance, there is a fresh wave of anointing coming

on writers and scribes to commit to paper a God-given message.

So, whether or not books have a limited future, it’s my belief that there are still Swimmers who will wholeheartedly dive into the text. Soakers who will marinate in a book to experience a transformational moment. So, if for no other reason, let’s create some literary pools for Swimmers and Soakers to enjoy.






 

[1] www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-26515836

[2] Ibid

[3] Jeremiah 20:9 MSG

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