In Robin McKinley's novel "The Blue Sword," we encounter a poignant reflection on the influence of literature:
“[She] had always suffered from a vague restlessness, a longing for adventure that she told herself severely was the result of reading too many novels when she was a small child.”
This insightful observation captures the transformative power of books and their ability to shape our desires and aspirations.
Unpacking the Quote
Let's break down the key elements:
"Vague restlessness" - Suggests an undefined yearning for something more
"Longing for adventure" - Implies a desire for experiences beyond the ordinary
"Result of reading too many novels" - Attributes these feelings to early exposure to literature
"Told herself severely" - Indicates an attempt to dismiss or rationalize these desires
The Impact of Childhood Reading
McKinley's words remind us that:
Early exposure to literature can profoundly shape our worldview and desires
Books have the power to plant seeds of adventure and curiosity in young minds
The impact of childhood reading can persist well into adulthood
Practical Applications
To apply this wisdom:
Encourage diverse reading habits in children to broaden their horizons
Reflect on how your own childhood reading has influenced your life choices
Embrace the "restlessness" inspired by literature as a catalyst for personal growth
Consider how fiction can be a safe space to explore desires for adventure
Conclusion
This quote serves as a reminder of literature's power to inspire and shape our dreams. It encourages us to recognize and value the impact of our reading experiences, both past and present.