THE SWITCH IN READING CULTURE; FICTION OR SELF-HELP BOOKS
Over the years these two genres have been on a zealous run towards thriving in the world of books. It’s a matter of settling on what we humans prefer. One can personally relate to people and problems, the other builds up our imagination. But what really accentuates the generation today from the two?
In retrospect…
Fictional storytelling is traced back to ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece and Rome. Based on the chronicles of fiction, it has served as a means of entertainment, education, cultural expression and social commentary. It reflects on the value of imagination at different points of life making it a rich and invaluable aspect of human culture.
Speaking of ancient, printed books were in demand until E-books, audio books and books available on a kindle wheeled its way into the fraternity of books! There is a great decline in the market of printed books today due to the development of technology that we witness daily. Ascribed to this, self-help and fictional books are available in one way or the other!
Humans have a tendency of relating with each other and self-help books have been a daily mentor. Self-help books can be motivational, inspirational, spiritual, creative, innovative and more. Combining these varieties of self-help books have resulted in an upswing of personal development and wellness across society.
Speaking of the evolution of fiction reading, it has been influenced by various factors over time such as technological advancements, cultural shifts and development in literacy rates. From stories being communicated orally to modern contemporary trends, fiction continues to derive and yet it has remained an indispensable aspect of human culture, blessing the reader with the opportunity to soar into peculiar worlds and escape reality for however long the reader aspires.
Reading habits can vary from person to person based on personal tastes, values and life circumstances. It can differentiate so much that overall there is a balance between fiction and self-help books observed from traditionalists to genZs.
Generational differences in reading habits can vary with time reflecting diverse preferences and interests shaped by cultural, technological and social influences. While some may incline on the idea of fiction, the rest may embrace self-help literature more readily.