I divide all readers into two classes: those who read to remember and those who read to forget

I divide all readers into two classes: those who read to remember and those who read to forget

William Lyon Phelps, a renowned American author and literary critic, once famously said, “I divide all readers into two classes: those who read to remember and those who read to forget.” This statement encapsulates the essence of why people read and the different purposes it serves for individuals. Phelps believed that there are two distinct types of readers – those who read to retain knowledge and information, and those who read as a form of escapism or distraction.

For those who read to remember, reading is a means of acquiring knowledge, expanding their understanding of the world, and broadening their perspectives. These readers are often drawn to non-fiction books, biographies, historical accounts, and educational material that enrich their minds and stimulate their intellect. They approach reading as a way to learn, grow, and remember the valuable insights and lessons that books have to offer. For them, reading is a way to engage with the world and make sense of complex ideas and concepts.

On the other hand, there are those who read to forget – to escape from the pressures and stresses of everyday life, to immerse themselves in fictional worlds, and to temporarily disconnect from reality. These readers are often drawn to fiction, fantasy, romance, and other genres that offer a form of entertainment and relaxation. They use reading as a form of mental escape, a way to unwind and recharge, and a means of temporarily forgetting their worries and troubles.

Phelps’ dichotomy of readers reflects the diverse motivations and purposes behind why people read. Some read to remember, to educate themselves, and to enrich their minds, while others read to forget, to relax, and to find solace in the pages of a book. Ultimately, whether one reads to remember or to forget, the act of reading itself is a powerful and transformative experience that has the ability to shape our thoughts, beliefs, and perceptions of the world.