Graphic Novel Reading Group discussion
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Reading graphic novel's effect on reading non-illustrated books
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Jesse
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Oct 02, 2013 03:34PM
I've been exclusively reading comic books for a while now, and I seem not to be able to finish a book with no pictures anymore. Before comic books, I was an avid book reader. Now, I can't seem to finish any of them. Do you think there's a relationship between these or I'm just not trying hard enough? Encouragement, help, please?
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I read both graphic novels and non graphic books both and don't have a problem if there is no artwork. Perhaps whatever you are attempting to read isn't something you're that interested in? I'm not sure what advice I can offer besides to read something that you are really interested in.
Maybe you could try reading some of your old favorites?
Well Melanie, maybe you're right. I should switch to a book that'll hook me up from the get go.Camilla, that is a good advice too. I'll try to look for old favorites in my shelf, and I hope it works.
Thanks to you both. :)
Yeah, I've been reading comics/graphic novels for the last couple of years, but I've been intentionally mixing it up by reading a non-illustrated novel every few months.I was a little worried about that too, that it might ruin my ability or enjoyment of prose novels, but it hasn't for me.
I think the others here might be onto something... maybe you just weren't into the books you were trying to read.
It's had the same effect on me, I just like consuming stories faster. As long as you enjoy what you're reading there's no reason to feel like you're doing something wrong :)
I am a big believer in reading the books you like regardless of its status of "literary" or "must read" or "in" If you are reading a book you don't like it doesn't matter if it is a comic book or traditional text, it's going to be tough to finish it. The comic format is a little easier as they are normally shorter and the graphics can help you along a bit I find. If you don't like it, quit and find something you do like. It's not like theres not much out there :)I am one of those readers who will normally have at least 3 books on the go. I have a normal text novel on the go at all times and at least two comic books or graphic novels. I like the change of pace between the two.
I would suggest like others, that if you don't like the book you are reading it is more down to you not really liking it as opposed to not having pictures. Get another one :)
(Note: I'm not the same Andrew as the guy above.) I think you are asking the wrong question. Why do you read? If graphic novels fulfill your reading desires then you are fine. If they don't, then you need to get over it.I read for entertainment (primarily science fiction & graphic novels), to learn (biographies, history & theology), to make fun of ridiculous impossibilities (thrillers), and because I occasionally have a pea-brained desire to write something that others would enjoy and I'm seeing how others did it. Then there are blogs, news feeds, and other avenues for other interests.
What are your desires? Are you satisfied?
Often when I see ppl with their noses in novels I momentarily feel bad that I haven't read anything prose in about 18 months now. When I reflect on it I feel better because I am a complete non-artist yet I have never in my life felt more engaged with visual art. At this point I just can't see any fiction novels transporting me to other worlds as effectively as comics. Even TV and film tend to miss the mark in this regard.
I have noticed that I've read fewer prose novels in the last year since I upped my comics intake. I used to try to read a prose piece every week, now it's more like once or twice a month. Also I've noticed that I'm attempting fewer longer reads, books like 800+ pages. But I'm hoping to remedy that with Donna Tartt's latest, The Goldfinch.
It's interesting to think about the differences between linguistic and visual literacy. The way they interact with and complement each other in comics is what makes the form unique. I've had an interesting experience reading Fables recently. I've been devouring the trades, but can't seem to get into the Peter & Max Fables novel. Despite the fact that the novel and the comics were written by the same author and share the same setting, concepts, themes, etc., there's a notable difference in execution that I think is intrinsic to the medium. Of course, it may also reflect Willingham's skills as a comics storyteller versus his skills as a novelist. However, reading Fables has also inspired me to go back and not only read, but really study the original folk and fairy tales that inspired Willingham's characters. Other than the fact that there are only so many hours in the day, I've never had my comics reading negatively affect my novel reading. Instead, they always inspire each other.
I love the discussion topic. I had been thinking exactly the same thing. Do i have the patience for long form novels anymore...
I have noticed I don't read pictures without words as often anymore. I don't think it's that I don't want to, it's that I fill more free time with comics/gns. Finite time!
