First, in an eloquent editorial in The New York Times, Ann Patchett, author of Bel Canto, explains that:
"Reading fiction is important. It is a vital means of imagining a life other than our own, which in turn makes us more empathetic beings."Apparently, science backs it up:
"Dr. Oatley and Dr. Mar, in collaboration with several other scientists, reported in two studies, published in 2006 and 2009, that individuals who frequently read fiction seem to be better able to understand other people, empathize with them and see the world from their perspective."And a second reason to read, from The Marriage Plot:
"It wasn't only that this writing seemed beautiful to Madeleine. It wasn't only that these opening sentences of Barthes' made immediate sense. It wasn't only the relief at recognizing that here, finally, was a book she might write her final paper on. What made Madeleine sit up in bed was something closer to the reason she read books in the first place and had always loved them. Here was a sign that she wasn't alone. Here was an articulation of what she had been so far mutely feeling."(As an aside, Bel Canto is highly recommended.)
