Why Have We Grown Distant from Books?

A striking statistic reveals that 61.5% of South Korean adults did not read any books in the past year, painting a concerning picture of a nation increasingly distanced from literature. While childhood memories might recall enjoyable experiences with fairy tales and young adult novels, the transition to adulthood often sees a complete abandonment of reading. This shift, the article suggests, is not a sudden aversion but a gradual accumulation of psychological distance, systematically cultivated over years.

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If you had to write a review of 500 characters or more every time you watched a drama, how would that feel?

The primary culprit identified is the practice of mandatory book reports. The expectation to articulate feelings and insights after reading often leads to frustration, with many resorting to simply recounting the plot. While proponents believe this enhances comprehension and writing skills, the article argues it is more effective at fostering a dislike for reading. The analogy is drawn to being forced to write a lengthy review after every TV show; even enjoyable content can become a chore under such obligation.

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The intrinsic motivation of humans weakens when excessive control or rewards are involved.

Another significant factor is the imposition of "required reading" lists. Children are often guided towards "beneficial books" or "classic series essential for growth," which can turn the initial encounter with genres like humanities into a burdensome task. Psychologically, intrinsic motivation weakens when external controls or rewards are excessively applied. Thus, assigning specific books and offering rewards for reading them can paradoxically diminish genuine interest.

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Children usually struggle to choose books. They might pick up only comics filled with pictures, or thick, difficult books written for adult readers, and lose interest after reading only a few paragraphs.

The article advocates for a shift in approach, emphasizing the importance of allowing children to choose their own books, even if they are fantasy novels or comics. Reading, in essence, is an act of imagination, and engaging with stories, regardless of genre, builds this crucial ability. The failure to choose a book is also presented as a learning experience. Ultimately, the goal should be to instill the joy of reading and the satisfaction of writing, recognizing that happy memories associated with books are more enduring than lessons learned from mandated texts. The opportunity to learn about morality and virtue will always be available, but the pleasure of reading should be nurtured first.

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We have seen the process of children who read required books and wrote book reports grow into adults who have no time to read and have nothing particular to say.