Books
Many Artists do not consider reading books a significant part of their growth and training. I know it is easier to watch the movie or TV in general than read a book. If this is you I would like to challenge you on your stance. A wise man said once that having a library of books was like having access to many experts and scholars. Whenever you have a question you grab a book and consult that Scholar. Reading is also known to encourage stimulus of the brain. So to summarize, If you read you will think clearer and be more educated. Do not fear education. We should always be learning. It is a proud man that says he has nothing new to learn. Challenge yourself. Hear are a couple of thoughts and challenges for you.
1.) Read books that you know are beyond you. Break them up into sentences to understand and interpret. Before you know it your reading will improve.
2.)Read books that are old. Remember their is nothing new under the sun. Authors from 50-100 plus years ago were not as distracted as we are with TV, Movies, Internet, etc. They had time to focus and pour over the material they were writing and the content has stood the test of time. As you read about their lives and perspectives you see more similarities than differences.
3.) Just because you read it and everyone says it’s a great book doesn’t make it true. Learn to discern. this is part of life. Their is bad Art. Their is bad Music and I assure you their is Bad Literature.
4.) Periodicals,and trade magazines are informative and good but do not let them comprise the majority of your consumption.
5.) Find a friend and get them to read a book with you and then discuss it. It may sound cheesy but no more cheesier than ordering a grande mocha latte cappuccino with a twist of espresso or whatever it is that you just ordered last night at Starbucks.
6.) Keep a journal of all the books you’ve completed in a year.
Happy Reading.
