Do you feel you always need to be reading something?

[Insiderman]

In these days when books
line the shelves like so many nuts and bolts,
I put this question to you.

It is a matter of quality, you see.  Sort of like, listening to crappy music because it's there, watching whatever is on TV because it just happens to be there.  It would follow that you also always have to be reading a book, no matter what it is, no matter what it says. 

 

[twistedspike]

I have never felt that I have to read a book, but more that I always CHOOSE to read a book.

[MissBarbara]

In these days when books
line the shelves like so many nuts and bolts,
I put this question to you.

It is a matter of quality, you see.  Sort of like, listening to crappy music because it's there, watching whatever is on TV because it just happens to be there.  It would follow that you also always have to be reading a book, no matter what it is, no matter what it says. 

I have a very unfair advantage. I have access to a top-flight university library, and I have access to the New York City library system, which offers both books and eBooks.

As a result, for both systems, if there's a book I want to read, I can reserve it with a couple of clicks or taps, and I'll receive a text message or email when it's available.

So, to answer the question, I am always reading something, and, most of the time, several somethings. And I choose exactly what I want to read.

[psiberzerker]

Quite the opposite, I can't write in the middle of a book, or i tend to subconsciously plagiarize from whatever I'm reading.  I also have a problem with reading in bed:  I fall asleep, and keep "Reading," only I make up the story from there.  Then, when I wake up I have to backtrack, and start over with what the author actually wrote in the original story.

I think in words, and multitask.  These are side affects I have to avoid when reading/writing, because my mmind doesn't always differentiate between the 2.  The story I'm reading, and the rough draft of the story I'm writing in my head.

It's also why I type so fast.

[Remington555]

So, to answer the question, I am always reading something, and, most of the time, several somethings.

Right there with you Miss B.

At any given time, I'm reading one book on my phone when I go outside for a smoke, sitting in a waiting room, even waiting in line at the pharmacy or waiting for a train.

I read another book on my bedside tablet before I go to sleep.

Whenever I'm in the car I listen to an audiobook.

As for the original question, I don't feel a need so much as a desire to be reading something. Time that would otherwise be wasted can be made productive (or just entertaining).

Remmy

[vinney]

I don't have access to any university, college or school libraries these days. In my area there are several well-stocked libraries almost all run by volunteers.

Yes I enjoy reading and rarely miss a day... I have a kindle which I usually carry with me and that is quite a resource. It comes in handy whenever I have time to read including public transport. I have many books stored on there, some are 'freebies' others are bought. I suppose I have about a 90% success rate on choosing really good reads.

On my desk there is a pile of novels by local authors who I both know personally and respect their individual writing styles. Each book will be read...

So yes. I do feel the need to read something. It helps develop my mind apart from anything else... As a writer, I always learn from, and appreciate, the many varying styles.




 

[msslave]

Always have a couple books going. Been a reader all my life starting with comic books.

For many years I've been "reading" audiobooks". I worked as a courier for over five years, spending 8+ hours a day in the car.  I buy some and also get a lot free from the library on line.

Still like the feel of a real book and keep on in the bathroom. Wife has TV on 24 hours a day so that's my only reading refuge.

[Raceway]

I wouldn't say that I need to be reading something.

I want to be reading whatever serendipity brings my way. One book leads to another, which leads to another.

[purpleshoes]

I would agree with that. Reading is high on the list of things I like to do when I have time. Since my wife doesn't drive anymore, I spend a lot of time taking her to medical appointments and I spend the time waiting for her using the e-book app on my phone. I've read while waiting for a train and standing in line at the pharmacy. My e-book reader is the app I use the most on my phone, usually 16–17 hours every week. Solitaire is the second most used app, about six hours a week.

[Raceway]

I would agree with that. Reading is high on the list of things I like to do when I have time. Since my wife doesn't drive anymore, I spend a lot of time taking her to medical appointments and I spend the time waiting for her using the e-book app on my phone. I've read while waiting for a train and standing in line at the pharmacy. My e-book reader is the app I use the most on my phone, usually 16–17 hours every week. Solitaire is the second most used app, about six hours a week.

A decade ago, I decided to digitize some of my favourite books (all out of copyright), so that I could do what you do, which is read them on a tablet or phone, anywhere and anytime.

I began by creating epub files, but ended up with a simpler solution: format the files as simple, no-nonsense HTML web pages. Most browsers now offer a "Reader" option that removes the HTML and CSS and displays the text in the simplest and most readable form possible.

I don't think the major publishers will go down that particular route. Their business model requires DRM and use of an app that feeds back data that can be monetized.

[MintJulie]

I have had trouble reading since I first picked up a book since my latest incident.  Aabout 3 weeks ago while we were at the cottage. I started rereading my favorite series of all time. Clan Of The Cavebear. It helped that I've read it before.
I used to always be reading. A couple books at a time even. Unfortunately I left the book at the cabin. Time to find something else to read until I can get