The lost generation of readers

"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times." "There is no confusion like the confusion of a simple mind." "To be or not to be, that is the question." Three quotes many people have heard some time in their life. A magical quality exists within quotes from books. Penetrating the thoughts and feelings faster than any blade, holding a challenge for thought, they shine through as memorable and become ingrained within our minds for vast periods of time. In recent times, books containing such wonderful quotes and allegories are being neglected by children, teenagers, as well as middle aged adults. Technology has advanced rapidly since the 1970's, when periods spend reading slowly crept down. Today in the United States, "Only 47 percent of American adults read "literature" (poems, plays, narrative fiction) in 2002, a drop of 7 points from a decade earlier. Those reading any book at all in 2002 fell to 57 percent, down from 61 percent." http://www.cbsnews.com/2100-201_162-628194.html. Society in the 21st century has become a lost generation of readers. Armed with an ability to read, they prefer neglecting this precious gift (remember 1 billion adults worldwide are illiterate) rather than benefiting themselves in almost every possible way. The greatest minds and intellectuals of all time possessed knowledge beyond measure and it came down to their appreciation of books and literature to guide their thinking.

Dr. Suess, one of the finest children's authors of all time said "the more you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you will go." Today's generation prefer gawking in front of the TV, staring aimlessly at a computer screen or forever fizzle about playing with modern technology, almost oblivious to the vast amounts of knowledge, which sit readily on the bookshelf. Former controversial journalist Christopher Hitchens, had a knack for being incredibly well read, always lively and engaging, never boring. With the views he held, Hitchens always stood firm with his views, never afraid of quote essays, books or articles from memory towards his opponents. It comes as no surprise that he was described as someone who was "sharp, witty and never boring," not only due to his quick thinking but also through his vast foray into numerous fields of reading. Incredible that so many of today's generation look towards books scornfully, as if they are toxic elixirs. Their imaginations are vanishing, everything is being done for them now. No point in reading the book when you can watch the movie right? Why flip through a huge book trying to learn about ancient history when you can watch a documentary...right?" Books, far from removing the enjoyment of learning and entertainment, add to it. It brings to life imagination and wander, allowing youth and adults alike to think outside the box, allowing them to take control of how the situation should take place. Walt Disney famously stated "There is more treasure in books than in all the pirate's loot on Treasure Island," so why don't we let our imaginations run wild!

"I cannot explain myself I'm afraid sir, because I'm not myself you see." During her journey into Wonderland Alice is asked by the caterpillar to explain who she was but found it difficult after changing size and shape so frequently since her entrance into this new world. Ask someone these days why they don't read, you'll likely get one of three replies; "I don't like reading, I don't have time, or I don't have any books to read." As pathetic and unconvincing as these excuses may be, reading is currently in a obsolescent state. Readers go into times, places, worlds and galaxies many of us could never fully comprehend. These settings transcend any rational explanation. Yet we're there. An engaged reader feels as if they really are completely entrenched within these fantastic environments, from navigating through battles with Napoleon on horseback, to walking through the desolate American roads with Jack Reacher; a connection is established. An author's gift to the world is their writing and in the developed world, there is such an abundant blessing and surplus of wonderful literature. A lot of it has gone unnoticed. It comes as no surprise that people are beginning to feel lonelier now more than ever before. Real life friends can only carry you so far, do so much with you, only provide so much solace. Characters in books take you beyond normality, plunge you into dangerous situations, readily welcoming you to come along for the journey, if only you turn the page. For a while, the reality of life can be left behind: for today you become someone new with every new page. If your friends scorn at you for taking an avid kinship with literary characters, smile "for you are not yourself."

How can this lost generation of readers gravitate back towards reading? Don't expect the government initiatives to work. They've implemented (in blind faith) many hollow bridge schemes. The true answer lies in the magic. Kids follow their parents example. Kids enjoy attention. If parents take an interest in the books their children read, walking through Hogwarts or exploring Treasure Island with them, chances are good the kid will continue exploring different books. For young adults, the benefit of reading books is knowledge each text carries. As a generation thirsty for knowledge, books inform and develop one's viewpoints, sharpen finer points of information and fine tune the humor. After all "We don't want anyone sounding like George Orwell on a bad day." In any adult who has repudiated themselves from reading books, think back on the times when you journeyed away from your own life. Just for that short period of time, remember how special it felt to be a part of that journey you took. The grandeur in books has always existed and will always exist. The lost generation of readers are not irremediable. A fire and brimstone passion for reading can set alight an enjoyment for reading.

All they need is a little spark to get it all going