We read to find ourselves, more fully and more strangely than otherwise we could hope to find

We read to find ourselves, more fully and more strangely than otherwise we could hope to find

Harold Bloom, a renowned literary critic and scholar, once said, “We read to find ourselves, more fully and more strangely than otherwise we could hope to find.” This statement encapsulates the essence of why we turn to literature and the power it holds in shaping our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Reading allows us to delve into the depths of our own consciousness and explore the complexities of our innermost thoughts and emotions. Through the characters, settings, and themes presented in literature, we are able to see reflections of ourselves and gain a deeper understanding of our own identities. We may find aspects of ourselves that we never knew existed or uncover hidden truths about our desires, fears, and aspirations. In this way, reading serves as a mirror that allows us to see ourselves more fully and more clearly than we could through any other means.

At the same time, literature has the ability to transport us to worlds that are vastly different from our own, exposing us to new perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking. By immersing ourselves in the stories and ideas presented in books, we are able to expand our understanding of the human experience and connect with people and cultures that may be vastly different from our own. This exposure to the “strangeness” of literature helps us to break free from the confines of our own limited perspectives and embrace the diversity and complexity of the world around us.

Harold Bloom’s words remind us of the transformative power of literature and the profound impact it can have on our lives. Through reading, we are able to find ourselves in ways that are both familiar and unfamiliar, allowing us to grow, evolve, and ultimately become more fully realized individuals. In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, literature serves as a timeless and invaluable tool for self-discovery and personal growth.