HOOKED ON BOOKS

HOOKED ON BOOKS is my motto and the force that drives my interest in writing. In honesty, today’s reader must guard with diligence the selection of reading material to be embraced, and the writer must guard against allowing writing talent to digress into the pit of trash simply to cater to the decline in moral character reigning in the world today.

Writers stay informed of the publications that appear on the shelves of our Libraries, as well as the best sellers in the publishing market. Some of the publications labeled as literature astound me. Classic authors of the past would turn over in their graves if they could review what we read today.  Of course, that assumes we’re reading anything.  Many folks will tell you they do not read books at all.  Movies and television have influenced our habits and robbed us of imagination and creativity.

 A brief research of our library shelves reveals the rapid disappearance of printed reading material, and the robust market of replacement with electronics. I’m not at all opposed to the electronic world, but certainly a backup system is needed to assure that the printed book does not become a relic of the past. When the electric grid fails, one can depend on the printed book that can be read by firelight as Abraham Lincoln found to be quite dependable.

The disappearance of books from the literary world pales in comparison to the disappearance of well-composed, grammatically correct, interesting page-turning literature. Pornography, colorful language, and graphic violence drive the literary market today filling the pages with useless repetition, extensive descriptive language simply to add pages, flat characters without dimension, plotless content without hooks to create interest, and stories are completely devoid of rhythm. A well-written story should glide seamlessly connecting one sentence to the next with rhythm as in a piece of music.

 Much of present day creative writing lacks the plot driven story with a beginning to grab the reader’s attention, conflict to ignite his emotions, rhythm to pace his interest, and conclusions that complete and guide the story to a memorable ending. However, hope for the future remains when  among the brass, one finds the golden voice of excellence rising to enrich the reader’s experience with writing that excels in composition and content. We must recognize, nourish,  and encourage the writer with exceptional talent.

Conversely, new and fresh approaches in creative writing with realistic changes that enhance readability in grammar, structure, and content are appreciated and accepted by writers educated in the twentieth century. However, like teaching an old dog new tricks, older writers often oppose and reject new ideas. I try to keep pace with changes, and I appreciate obvious improvements.

Back to comparing books and electronics, as a reader, I prefer to hold a book in my hands, turn the pages, and see the book standing in my bookshelf for future reference. I own a Kindle, and I enjoy the convenience in the doctor’s office and other places of waiting. As a writer, I enjoy creating book covers that complement my story, and I enjoy seeing my adventures come to life on the written page. Books are creations that should be treasured for the value they bring to the world of literature, as well as the knowledge and experience they add to our culture. Visiting and supporting our Libraries will ensure the longevity of the printed page. Reading is a rich and rewarding hobby. Become HOOKED ON BOOKS and visit your Library often.