We read in bed because reading is halfway between life and dreaming, our own consciousness in someone else's mind

We read in bed because reading is halfway between life and dreaming, our own consciousness in someone else's mind

Anna Quindlen, a renowned American author and journalist, once said, “We read in bed because reading is halfway between life and dreaming, our own consciousness in someone else's mind.” This quote beautifully captures the essence of why reading is such a powerful and transformative experience for so many people.

Reading allows us to escape the confines of our own reality and immerse ourselves in the lives and minds of others. It is a way to step into someone else's shoes, to see the world through their eyes, and to experience their joys, sorrows, and struggles. In this way, reading is a bridge between our own consciousness and the thoughts and emotions of the characters we encounter in books.

When we read in bed, we are in a state of relaxation and vulnerability, making it the perfect setting for diving into a good book. As we lose ourselves in the pages, we are transported to different worlds, times, and perspectives. We may find ourselves empathizing with characters who are nothing like us, or gaining new insights and understanding about the human experience.

Anna Quindlen's words also speak to the intimate and personal nature of reading. When we read, we are engaging in a deeply personal act of connecting with the thoughts and emotions of another person, even if that person is a fictional character. It is a way of forging a bond with the author, who has poured their heart and soul into creating a story that resonates with readers on a profound level.

In this sense, reading is not just a solitary activity, but a shared experience that allows us to connect with others in a way that is both intimate and universal. It is a reminder that, despite our differences, we are all connected by our shared humanity and our capacity for empathy and understanding.