Reading: An Essay, by Hugh Walpole
In 1926, Hugh Walpole published Reading: An Essay to share his deep love for books and to champion the intrinsic joys of reading. Written with warmth and eloquence, this essay isn’t just about books—it’s about the profound, almost magical role they play in our lives. Walpole’s purpose in writing the essay was clear: to inspire readers to embrace literature as a source of joy, comfort, and self-discovery.
In a world increasingly focused on productivity and results, Walpole’s essay stands out as a refreshing reminder that reading doesn’t always have to serve a utilitarian purpose. He argues that books should not merely be tools for education, self-improvement, or academic study. Instead, they should be savored, much like a fine meal or a piece of art. For Walpole, reading is not a means to an end but an end in itself – a pure and enriching experience.
Walpole also believed that reading had the power to transport readers to new worlds, broaden perspectives, and inspire creativity. By immersing oneself in literature, readers could escape the humdrum of daily life and discover ideas, emotions, and adventures beyond their immediate reality. This, Walpole felt, was a form of magic that everyone should experience.
The book is deeply personal, reflecting Walpole’s own experiences with literature. It’s clear that he wrote it not only to share his love for books but to connect with readers who might share – or rediscover – their passion for reading. The essay reads as a conversation between Walpole and the reader, making his enthusiasm contagious.
While Reading: An Essay was written in the early 20th century, its message remains relevant. In an age dominated by screens and distractions, Walpole’s plea to read for pleasure feels even more urgent. His essay invites readers to slow down, pick up a book, and enjoy the simple act of turning pages – not to gain knowledge or achieve a goal, but to reconnect with the timeless art of storytelling.
Walpole’s essay is more than a piece of literary criticism; it is a heartfelt manifesto for the joys of reading. It reminds us that books are more than just objects—they are companions, guides, and gateways to worlds of wonder. Reading: An Essay serves as an enduring testament to the transformative power of literature and the profound, simple joy it can bring to our lives.
With thanks to David Wales for the reading. The full audiobook can also be found here at Librivox.
