In her memoir, Azar Nafisi emphasizes that reading a novel goes beyond mere surface-level understanding; it requires a deep, immersive experience. She insists that a novel is not just a symbolic representation of ideas but a means to enter a different world entirely, allowing readers to connect intimately with characters and their journeys. Empathy emerges as a crucial element, as it fosters a genuine connection to the narrative and the emotions involved.

Nafisi encourages readers to fully engage with the story, urging them to "breathe in" the experience to truly appreciate the complexities and nuances within it. This ability to empathize enhances the reading experience, making it more enriching and profound. Such insights highlight not only the process of reading but also the responsibilities of readers to immerse themselves in literature fully.