Embracing Unread Books: A Journey of Self-Discovery
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Chapter 1: The Joy of Book Ownership
Owning books that remain unread is not a crime that deserves punishment. In fact, I’ve come to realize that indulging in book shopping doesn’t have to come with guilt. Here’s my story.
My relationship with books began in childhood, filled with shelves of stories waiting to be explored. This love for books has persisted into my adult life. Each book I acquire signifies my thirst for knowledge and the myriad lessons the world has to offer.
Sometimes, I pause to appreciate a beautifully crafted sentence and ponder how the author conceived such thoughts. There's a comforting feeling of connection when I recognize my own emotions reflected in someone else's words. As William Nicholson aptly put it, "We read to know we’re not alone."
My reading habits fluctuate; responsibilities often push reading to the sidelines. Yet, there are moments when a compelling book keeps me up late, eager to turn the next page. I also buy many children’s books, reading them more frequently than my own, a sentiment that resonates with many parents. In truth, I derive immense joy from children’s literature, which imparts its own wisdom.
Yet, among the many books I acquire, some remain unread. Each time I glance at a book on my shelf that I haven't delved into, a twinge of guilt surfaces. I've spent money and invested time acquiring it, convinced I would read it, only to let it sit idle, gathering dust.
After much contemplation, I’ve pledged to refrain from purchasing books I don’t intend to read, but inevitably, I break that promise. This cycle of guilt continues. As Jane Smiley observes, “Many people, myself among them, feel better at the mere sight of a book.”
Recognizing the Value of Unread Books
A pivotal lesson I’ve learned is that having unread books isn’t a negative aspect. Instead, it serves as a humble acknowledgment of my limited knowledge. No one can claim to know everything, and while some may flaunt their knowledge, many recognize their own limitations.
Every unread book on my shelf reminds me of this reality. It encourages openness to different perspectives and instills a continual quest for improvement.
Understanding Tsundoku
What is "Tsundoku"? This Japanese term refers to the act of acquiring books without reading them. Professor Andrew Gerstle explains that 'doku' means 'reading', while 'tsun' comes from 'tsumu', meaning 'to pile up'. Thus, "tsundoku" perfectly encapsulates the phenomenon of collecting books that remain unread.
It’s comforting to know that this is not a new occurrence; people have been grappling with this for over a century. Perhaps this behavior is ingrained in our psyche.
The Concept of the Antilibrary
The notion of unread books finds an intriguing parallel in Nassim Nicholas Taleb’s idea of the "antilibrary." In his influential book, The Black Swan, Taleb describes a private library not merely as a status symbol, but as a research tool. He asserts that unread books hold more value than those we’ve already consumed, emphasizing that the more one learns, the larger the collection of unread books grows.
Taleb’s insights suggest that those who recognize their ignorance are often more diligent in their pursuit of knowledge. If the sight of unread books makes you uneasy, consider it a positive sign of awareness and a desire for growth.
Finding Balance in Book Purchases
Of course, while it’s beneficial to have books on our shelves, we must be mindful of our spending. As Taleb advises, your library should reflect your financial capabilities. If you can afford to buy a book every couple of months, stick to that. If you can manage more, then go ahead.
However, be cautious of a potential downside—some individuals buy books solely for decor, lacking any intent to read. This phenomenon raises questions about authenticity in our relationship with literature.
A Shift in Perspective
Today, I no longer feel guilty about my unread books. I’ve shifted my focus from guilt to understanding. Owning unread books signifies a desire to learn and grow, even if I don’t read every single one.
These books serve as reminders of my journey, teaching me more about myself and the world around me. They challenge me to become a better person, echoing John Green’s sentiment: “Books are the ultimate Dumpees: put them down and they’ll wait for you forever; pay attention to them and they always love you back.”
Some books will inevitably linger on my shelf without being opened. Yet, I will always cherish the understanding that my knowledge is just a fraction of what there is to discover.
The first video titled "The Psychology Behind Buying Books We Don't Read" explores the reasons behind our tendency to purchase books that often remain unread.
The second video, "Why You Keep Buying Books You Don't Read," delves into the psychological aspects of book buying habits and how they relate to our reading experiences.