📖 **When The Solution Is Worse Than The Initial Problem**
I was advised by a friend to intersperse fiction books in between my reading of non-fiction material. He said that it would help with concentration and removing boredom. Taking his advice to heart, I have started doing exactly as advised. This has led me into a quandary. The latest fiction book that I chose is over one thousand pages of historical fiction. The choice of book came from an online recommendation. I am currently on page two hundred and eighty-eight and it has been a struggle getting this far. Ostensibly a 'palate cleaner' my current choice is boring and can in no way be described as a page turner. The easiest solution would be to stop reading and move on; however, I find that really difficult. I know it is a personal flaw and something that I need to address and change. In the meantime, I will continue to struggle and hope the thousand-page mark comes quickly.
#DNF #Reading #Fiction #Nonfiction #Books #Bookstodon @bookstodon
@bibliolater @bookstodon There really is no obligation to finish a book you don’t find satisfying. You may feel a sense of obligation to finish something that you started, but it’s worth questioning that, since it can end up being self-punishing. I also don’t think that it’s a good use of the limited time you have available on this earth to stick with books that drain you. Find a book that gives you pleasure!
I know, I know. I have been through all the reasons in my mind as to why I should just move on. It is not like I need to read it for work or study. At the end of the day, it is a work of fiction that I am reading for pleasure. At this stage, it does not feel like it. I hope by typing my feelings, it may bring me closer to stamping the #DNF hashtag on to this particular title.
@bibliolater @bookstodon In all seriousness I suggest having a talk with the book. Try thanking it for being there for you, and explain to it that the two of you are just not a good fit, and you’re going to have to part ways.
I’ve done this kind of thing in other areas of my life.
It might sound silly, but it’s a way of processing the often complicated relationships we have around books and obligations.