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Anyone else super picky with what they read? (literature.cafe)

submitted 2 days ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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I'm always amazed to see how some of my friends are just able to read any book recommended to them with no hesitation at all; whereas with me, I need to research what kind of book it is, what ideas the book will be wrestling with, the author and their writing style. Like currently, I am struggling to give "Being and Time" by Martin Heidegger a try as I am more of a fan of Bertrand Russel and analytical philosophy which seems to be scientific in nature -- especially when compared to that of Heidegger, so I've heard. I feel that if I am spending my time reading something, that I should come away at the end of the book having learned something of value (to me, that's a pretty subjective statement). I think this is a good thing, as just about every book I've chosen to read has been an enlightening and somewhat euphoric experience that cannot be replaced. I wonder though, does anyone else relate?

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[–] [email protected] 3 points 1 day ago (1 children)

I feel like I am the pickiest reader I know. I prefer reading light, humorous type books. But as it turns out, writing things that are genuinely funny is a difficult ask; generally, at least to me, a lot of "funny" writing comes off as trying too hard and failing miserably.

I will also just stop reading whatever if the book has any one of several items that piss me off. This includes, but is not limited to: bad/unrealistic dialogue, unnecessary romance/sex, cliche or unrealistic plots, or unlikable characters that I am supposed to root for.

I have started so many books - ones that were recommended by trusted friends or that were on a bestsellers list - only to put them down within the first few chapters because I just couldn't stand whatever the book was doing or trying to do.

I'm actually genuinely sad I don't enjoy reading more, but I refuse to slog through books that I just don't like, so the end result is that I don't read very much. It's frustrating.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 23 hours ago

This is totally valid and understandable. Do you find yourself feeling this way in media as well; like TV shows or movies? BoJack Horseman comes to mind when you mentioned unlikable characters you are supposed to root for. I can't say that I've had that experience within a book but I do find myself in certain shows rooting for some characters that are assholes or unlikable.

I can't say that I have found much humorous works -- though I haven't particularly looked for it. The best I can think of is Christopher Hitchens' "Hitch 22" memoir having some funny moment in there. Do you have any recommendations?

I am the same way with not reading more. It is why I choose super thick books to try to make the experience last longer if I like it. I end up rereading the same things until I might stumble upon something else. Is there a book or some books you find yourself rereading for comfort or extended enjoyment? I imagine this might be more difficult with fiction.