The ancient Greeks held a fascinating belief about reading aloud, thinking it was a way for the deceased to use a living person's voice to communicate once more. This idea suggests a deep connection between the living and the dead, where spoken words become a bridge across time and existence. The act of reading transforms the text into a channel for past voices, creating a unique experience that transcends mere literacy.
This concept, as highlighted in Ruth Ozeki's "A Tale for the Time Being," reflects the power of language and storytelling. It emphasizes how words carry the essence of those who have come before us, allowing their thoughts and emotions to resonate within the present. By engaging with texts in this way, readers connect with history and memory, preserving the legacies of those who are no longer with us.