Reading as a cultural marker: why I am ashamed of what (and how) I read
Have you already noticed that reading has long ceased to be just a hobby - it has become a marker of intelligence, taste, and even social identity? People often face condemnation not only for not reading, but also for their choice of literature. In the country where I’m from it is believed that a serious person must keep Dostoevsky on their bedside table, but not James’s 50 Shades or even worse, a collection of fanfiction stories with a bright front page. Anything that goes beyond the so-called “high literature” is automatically perceived as something second-rate. Hence the awkwardness, self-censorship, and, ultimately, the rejection of reading them. Well, such a critical look at the classification of literature and consequently its readers could be explained through the historical ability to read, which initially belonged to the privileged class: the clergy, nobility, and scientists. Books were rare, and literacy was considered a sign of high status. In modern times, access to education has become wider, but the idea of reading as an intellectual activity of the elite has remained the same. That's why even today, refusing to read or showing interest in "simple" texts can lead to a caustic comment like, "Are you seriously reading this?"
This attitude gives rise to a phenomenon that can be called literary snobbery. It manifests itself in how we evaluate ourselves and others through the prism of book preferences. Reading classics, philosophy, or nonfiction is considered a "smart" choice, while genre literature is seen as entertainment content unworthy of serious attention. As a result, people face frustration and even discrimination based on preferences (a similar pattern can also be seen in music, although there is less categoricalness there).
Interestingly, some research shows that any form of reading has a positive effect on the brain. For example, neuropsychologists from Emory University proved in 2021 that after reading fiction, study participants demonstrated increased activity in the areas of the brain responsible for both understanding language and visualization. This effect lasted for several days.
Therefore, we can claim the following: reading develops imagination, stimulates empathy, helps formulate thoughts, and improves concentration - regardless of the genre or complexity of the text.
It is also worth noting that refusing to read does not always indicate laziness or intellectual limitations. Commonly, it is simply a consequence of fatigue, information overload, anxiety, and other reasons. Constant demands for "correct" reading can be more demotivating than a complete lack of book culture. Just think of it, even when you have a possibility to relax and use your free will, you are being told how and what you are supposed to read to fit its social classification....
To conclude, it is not what we read that is more important than the very fact of interest in the text. A book that captivates, gives an emotional response, and encourages reflection is already a valuable experience. There is no need to be ashamed of "easy" literature if it brings pleasure. The ability to get joy from simple things is not a sign of infantilism, but an expression of maturity and the presence of a personal choice.
Reading is not a social obligation or a tool for demonstrating intelligence. It is a way to explore yourself, understand others, and expand the boundaries of perception. You can read 10 pages a week or devour novels in a night. You can be into philosophy, non-fiction, graphic novels, or paperback novels.
I would like to end this short blog with a quote from Stephen King: “Books are unique, portable magic.” And this magic should be available to everyone, regardless of tastes, goals, or intellectual ambitions.
PS. For 30 years now, my grandmother, one of the most insightful women I have ever known, has been reading D. Dontsova. Yes, the one who, according to critics, is annually recognized to be the worst writer in Russia, the year, and maybe even the entire universe. Some even consider her a (little??) crazy. When I once asked, "Why are you reading this?" - the answer was simple: "Because it's easy to read and doesn't require a good memory to remember the plot." And you know what? It makes sense. After long hours at work, where the brain is overloaded with data, numbers, and deadlines, a crazy detective story about a murderer, a woman with a pug, and a ghost lover is exactly what you need to relax.
So relax, and read whatever you like!
23.10.2025