The sentiment of an overwhelming abundance of literary works coupled with a scarcity of opportunity to engage with them is a common experience for avid readers. This can manifest as a towering “to-be-read” pile, a constant influx of new releases, or simply the awareness of a vast literary landscape yet unexplored. Imagine a reader subscribing to multiple book subscription services, simultaneously participating in a book club, and maintaining a lengthy personal list of desired reads a classic illustration of this predicament.
This awareness of literary abundance can be both exhilarating and daunting. It highlights the richness and diversity of human expression captured in books while simultaneously presenting a challenge to manage one’s reading aspirations realistically. Historically, access to literature was often limited by factors like cost, literacy rates, and availability. The present-day challenge, for many, has shifted from access to selection and time management. This shift reflects an increased democratization of literature, facilitated by technologies like e-books and online bookstores. The sheer volume of available works necessitates strategic prioritization for readers to maximize their engagement with chosen texts.