I had a quick chat this morning about re-reading, which is something I’ve found I had less time for in the last few months, with a TBR pile that threatens to topple over me, and more and more options for new reads.
A few weeks ago, I made a blog post about prioritizing my time to read books that matter more to me, as opposed to just treating my reading time like snack time and choosing junk food–grabbing whatever’s easiest and readily available and easy-to-munch on.
Re-reading, I think, falls under the “wholesome” angle. Re-read value is arguably one of the top five qualities I look for in a book. If there is nothing for me to chew on, if this book doesn’t make me stop and think or go back and read the last few pages again, I get bored.
Maybe it’s a by-product of being a fast reader, I don’t know. But the first time I read a book, I normally just focus on the events–what happens, where the protagonist ends up. Sure, if the prose is good, if the interactions are fun, I’ll enjoy those, too. But re-reading to me is akin to listening to music…at this point, when I’ve decided something is good enough to re-read, I’m focusing on the craft. I’m anticipating the highs and lows, and just sitting down and immersing myself in the comfort of someone who worked on this piece heart and soul.
And God, is it just so much more pleasurable. I don’t think I’ve ever made a decision that I absolutely loved a writer’s work at first glance–they always have to hold up during a re-read. This is when usually noticeable things like pacing becomes a non-issue, and more important things like foreshadowing and flow and scene sequences take the forefront. Best of all, I start to notice word choices and placement. I’ve made it a point countless of times that nothing pleases me more than writers who are deliberate with their narrative. I love sparse prose (though I can deal with flowery if the writer is sensitive to flow), and I love it when a writer is confident enough with their storytelling to know that I’m paying attention to every beat and rhythm.
I know that a common diatribe these days is that there are so many good books, and the fear of missing out while re-reading is all-too real. I would invite people to stop for a moment and understand that it is physically impossible to read everything. That’s just how it is. It is futile to try to catch up. You can’t listen to every single piece of music; you can’t date everyone. You can, however, fall deeper in love with something you already know. If you enjoyed something, if you LOVED something even, you’re probably missing out on just as much if you don’t re-read.
Having said all that, I think it’s time I get back to my re-reading schedule…
