Students didn't even read books anymore, thought Arthur. They dispensed with design and layout and cover art and illustrations and reduced reading to nothing but a stream of text in whatever font and size they chose. Reading without books, thought Arthur, was like playing cricket without dressing in white. It could be done, but why?

Students didn't even read books anymore, thought Arthur. They dispensed with design and layout and cover art and illustrations and reduced reading to nothing but a stream of text in whatever font and size they chose. Reading without books, thought Arthur, was like playing cricket without dressing in white. It could be done, but why?

(0 Reviews)

This quote highlights a profound concern about the evolving nature of reading and the impact of technology and digital media on traditional literary experiences. Arthur's observation that students merely scroll through texts in various fonts and sizes, without engaging with the physical or aesthetic aspects of books, calls into question the essence of how we consume written knowledge. The analogy comparing reading without books to playing cricket without dressing in white emphasizes that much of what makes reading a meaningful activity is lost when stripped of its traditional materiality — the design, illustrations, cover art, and the tactile sensation of turning pages. Books are not just vessels of information but also carriers of culture, emotion, and artistry. Removing these elements diminishes the experience, potentially reducing it to a monotonous stream of data that lacks context and personality. In our digital age, where convenience often trumps tradition, this shift raises concerns about retaining the depth and richness of reading. It prompts us to reflect on whether the new modes of consumption enhance or diminish our engagement with literature. While accessibility and flexibility are undeniable advantages of digital texts, there is a risk that the aesthetic and physical qualities that foster a deeper connection with books may be lost. To preserve the integrity of reading, perhaps a balance must be struck — embracing technological advances without abandoning the sensory and cultural dimensions that make reading a fulfilling human activity.

Page views
2
Update
June 22, 2025

Rate the Quote

Add Comment & Review

User Reviews

Based on 0 reviews
5 Star
0
4 Star
0
3 Star
0
2 Star
0
1 Star
0
Add Comment & Review
We'll never share your email with anyone else.