How do you read books? Do you read them once and move on? Or do you revisit them multiple times, trying to grasp the structure and gain a deeper understanding? In this article, we will discuss the two reading methods in modern society: ‘linear reading’ and ‘structural reading,’ and explore how these reading styles influence our lives and thinking.
What is Linear Reading?
Let’s first look at linear reading. Linear reading is literally reading one line at a time. Many people today engage in linear reading when browsing webtoons or articles on their smartphones or tablets. This method focuses on the current moment, connecting the immediate past and future context to understand the story.
Webtoons are an excellent medium for linear reading. Unlike comics in books, webtoons present one panel per screen, allowing the reader to follow the story by scrolling. This ensures a smooth flow of the narrative without interruptions. Since the focus is on reading one panel at a time, temporal connection becomes more crucial than spatial arrangement.
The Importance of Structural Reading
On the other hand, structural reading involves understanding the overall structure of the work and deepening comprehension through multiple readings. It plays a critical role in uncovering the truth and message within the book. You discover depths and meanings that cannot be grasped with just one reading.
Classical literature is highly suited for structural reading. For example, Shakespeare’s plays or Tolstoy’s novels reveal deeper truths and messages with each subsequent reading. What seemed like a simple story on the first read may reveal entirely different meanings on the second or third reading.
The Evolution of Reading in Modern Society
Reading habits have significantly changed in modern society. In a world overflowing with content to watch and read, we no longer feel the need to read the same thing multiple times. Instead, linear reading, which provides quick and easy access to information through smartphones and the internet, has become more prevalent.
YouTube is filled with content where experts summarize books or articles. Through this, we can gain important information in a short amount of time. But can such quickly consumed information truly have a profound impact on our lives?
Conclusion: A New Perspective on Reading
It’s time to rethink our reading habits. While linear reading can provide instant gratification, structural reading offers deep understanding and insight. Even in the fast-paced consumption of information in modern society, what remains important is the ability to grasp structure and truth. Gain a new perspective through reading that can truly impact your life.
References: The New Yorker, “How to Read Like a Writer”