Fiction and Academics

Normally I don't have much time for pleasure reading because of the amount of reading I have to do for classes and papers. And when I do have time to read what I want to read, I generally do not turn to fiction. However, this summer has been different, and I would assert that the time I am taking to read fiction will benefit my academic work in the future for several reasons.

First, fiction (specifically novels) is a different type of writing than academic writing. I can read good fiction for hours a day and not become bored or tired while a dry academic book can put me out in less than 30 minutes. Spending time reading well written fiction helps writers recognize good writing style and hopefully improve their own academic writing. I have read some well written academic works, such as Stephen Neill's Interpertaion of the New Testament, 1861-1986. So, hopefully my break from the purely academic will improve my writing.

Second, fiction helps us enter into different worlds. Much of biblical studies is concerned with understanding and interpreting different worlds: those of the Old and New Testament. As we improve our skill in entering unfamiliar places, we will hopefully improve our ability to enter into and understand ancient worlds.

Third, fiction stimulates a different part of our being. It speaks to our imagination and creativity. It calls us to different ways of thinking, asking us to visualize in our minds the story that we find on the pages. In read fiction there is refreshment and a break from the tedious work or academics.

So, for these reasons I read with joy, realizing that the various genres of books I read develop and sharpen different parts of my mind and creativity. But take heed -- not all books are equal. Choose wisely.