In his reflections, Larry McMurtry observes that the act of reading has become increasingly viewed as an eccentric activity, especially among contemporary readers and "bookmen." He points out that interruptions have seeped into the act of storytelling itself, suggesting that this trend traces back to the serialized novels of the 19th century, like those of Dickens, which were structured to accommodate breaks in narrative.

McMurtry further argues that modern technology has significantly exacerbated this phenomenon. Devices such as iPods, Blackberries, and laptops foster an environment where attention spans are shortened and narratives are fragmented, making it common for people to engage with stories in disjointed ways. This shift highlights how the traditional experience of reading is evolving in response to advances in technology.