Booking Through Thursday: Desperation: 06/28/07
Booking Through Thursday

Today's question is suggested by Carrie.

What's the most desperate thing you've read because it was the only available reading material? If it was longer than a cereal box or an advertisement, did it turn out to be worth your while?

I am a compulsive speed reader. I'm not sure I've ever read anything out of a feeling of desperation but if there is something in front of me in a written system that I understand (even if I don't understand the language), I will read it or the bits of it that I do understand. It doesn't matter what it is: a sign, a food box, a scribbled note, graffiti, etc.

For example, I don't speak or read Hebrew, but I've picked up a few words here and there. So now I find myself reading and rereading the box of matzos we have (but only the half dozen words I've some how picked up!). Or for example, I've picked up a few Japanese words so now when I see some Japanese, I'll compulsively read the three or four words I know. Ugh. Likewise for Greek, Russian and Chinese.

It's no better with languages I do actually speak. If there are words, I will read them even if I'm not planning and even if I'm not concentrating on them. I will just notice myself (or the voice in my head) reading the words.

Is all this compulsive reading worth my while? I have no idea. It's just part of who I am. The only time it really bothers me is when I'm coming down with (or have) a migraine. Then the reading actually hurts my head.

booking through thursday

View Comments (3)

Comment #1: Thursday, June, 28, 2007 at 23:05:48

Gattina says:
"I hope you understand what you are reading in japanese or hebrew ! Otherwise you could say to somebody " keep away from children" instead of "good morning""

Comment #2: Friday, June, 29, 2007 at 04:39:22

mom not mum says:
"So I'm not the only one reading the ingredients on the shampoo bottle? "

Comment #3: Friday, June, 29, 2007 at 13:45:29

pussreboots says:
"I said "read" not "speak". I wouldn't try speaking Japanese or Hebrew with my limited vocabulary. "