Take a look at this:
If you can’t help but pick up a few hardcovers every time you pass a bookstore, you may be someone who unwittingly practices “tsundoku.” The term refers to the habit of buying or otherwise accumulating a large number of books with no immediate intent of reading them — basically the opposite of borrowing a book from the library, reading it, and returning it. Although the concept might seem directly tied to the proliferation of modern bestsellers and book clubs, it has actually been around for over a century, according to the BBC. The first recorded entry dates back to 1879, but it was probably used before then, too. The etymology of the word itself is comprised of two Japanese verbs: “tsumu,” meaning “to pile up,” and “dokusho,” meaning “to read.” It’s been suggested that “tsundoku” has no direct English translation, although “bibliomania” comes close.
Interestingly, in this period of Zoom and gloom, we often observe “experts” and other television people broadcasting in front of, guess what? Their book shelves, of course! And the more books we see, the smarter they are, right? I guess the Japanese have figured this out!
So, if I get back on to Zoom, I will have to sit in front of my bookshelf, but only after removing some of the wine and Scotch bottles.
Now, if you have time, look a little deeper into the books on the shelves. Often times, they are just old CDs or VHS tapes with fake spines. Rarely do I see a Bible or Dictionary.
I would expect to see these famous books:
To Kill a Mockingbird
A Tale of Two Cities
1984
Catcher in the Rye
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Moby Dick
Ulysses
Gulliver’s Travels
The Count of Monte Cristo
Wuthering Heights
You must admit, that books give a better impression than a playground, bar, or living room. So, more books means the person is smarter!
My friend, Dr. W has an impressive array of books in his home. Not just medical, but he includes the arts, travel, language, culture, and fun. Perhaps I can use his abundant bookshelves as my zoom background?
Truth be known, I have one little bookshelf in the spare bedroom. Unless I want to keep the book for future reference, they are moved to a temporary holding “cell” in the garage, until they are given away or donated.
I love a good home library.
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