Reading

“Only the weak minded refuse to be influenced by literature and poetry.” That was said by the famed author, Cassandra Clare. Reading is an inspiring and relaxing pastime that is enjoyed by many people across the world. Books can give people fond memories of places they have never been and even change the way some people view life.


When asked if he found reading inspiring, David Cooper answered, ”Yes, because it enables you to see different perspectives and consider alternate points of view.”


Sherri Cooper commented that, “Reading does inspire. Good books are inspirational because they often tell of people overcoming obstacles or tragedies and doing great things with their lives, or they give you a glimpse into the human mind.” Even though both answers are vastly diverse they show that a lot of people find books inspiring but in different ways.


“I don’t have a lot of time to read all the time, but when I do read, I enjoy it and it calms me,” answers Caroline O’Hagan when asked if she liked reading. Her comment shows that though some people who are quite busy still find time to enjoy a good book.


Some people read books to get lost in the plot, while others read to relax. “I like that reading is a way to relax my mind after a long day at work,” says David Cooper.


Books can strongly impact peoples’ lives. “How will I ever get out of this labyrinth?” This quote from Looking for Alaska by John Green was found particularly inspiring by student Dara Rogers. “The labyrinth is very important to the plot.” She explains, “and it reminds you that if you’re stuck, there’s always a way out.”


The following poem by J.R.R. Tolkien from his trilogy “Lord of the Rings” was found very intriguing by Sherri Cooper as a young child and she still remembers it today.

“All that is gold does not glitter;

Not all those who wander are lost.

The old that is strong does not whither;

Deep roots are not reached by the frost.

From the ashes a fire shall be woken;

A light from the shadows shall spring.

Renewed shall be blade that was broken;

The crownless again shall be king.”


(ha that was off the top of my head)
“I find that poem to be very true, especially in the spiritual sense.” Sherri says, “It’s about good versus evil and how good isn’t always about that which looks good on the outside.”


“The Word has also helped me from not being afraid,” she adds thoughtfully, “There are some quotes I remember that show me God’s love.”


Many people enjoy reading. Whether it’s to escape the life they live in or to relax themselves after a long day’s work, reading is a popular pastime that is inspiring, educating and intriguing all in one.  “Books were a necessary escape I always gladly jumped into headfirst,” writes New York Times bestselling author, Jennifer Armentrout. This shows that an interest in reading can lead to astounding writers.