"Reading is not walking on the words; it's grasping the soul of them"

Reading isn't just about moving your eyes over words on a page; it's about truly understanding the essence behind them. Imagine you’re reading a novel. You’re not just following the plot but diving into the characters’ thoughts and emotions. You're feeling their triumphs and sorrows as if they were your own. That’s what it means to grasp the soul of the words.

Think back to the late 19th century, an era when literature was one of the primary forms of entertainment and a vital tool for education and enlightenment. Writers like Leo Tolstoy and Charles Dickens didn’t just tell stories—they conveyed deep messages about society, human nature, and morality. When Tolstoy wrote "War and Peace," he wasn’t merely recounting historical events; he was inviting readers into the minds of his characters, to live through the Napoleonic wars alongside them, to understand the philosophical questions about life and death.

Now, let’s bring this to life with an example. Think about reading "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. If you only read the words, you might know the plot: a young girl named Scout grows up in a racially divided Southern town. But when you grasp the soul of the words, you go deeper. You feel the injustice of Tom Robinson’s trial. You understand Atticus Finch's quiet strength and moral courage. You empathize with Scout’s loss of innocence. The book becomes more than its story—it becomes a part of your emotional and intellectual makeup.

So, how can you make sure you’re truly grasping the soul of the words when you read? First, slow down. Don’t rush through the pages just to reach the end. Take your time with each chapter. Reflect on what’s being said and why it’s important. Ask questions. Why is a character acting this way? What does this event mean in the larger context of the story? Discuss what you're reading with friends or in book clubs to gain different perspectives. Sometimes, hearing how others interpret a scene or a character can open your eyes to new depths you hadn’t noticed before.

Let’s make this relatable. Imagine you’re sitting at a coffee shop with a friend. They’re telling you about a tough time they’re going through. You’re not just listening to their words; you’re paying attention to their tone, their body language, the emotions they’re conveying. You’re grasping the soul of their story. Now, picture doing the same when you read. It’s about connection—feeling what the characters feel, understanding their struggles, and seeing the world from their perspective.

In essence, reading is an art. It’s about immersing yourself fully, beyond the superficial layer of black ink on white paper. It’s about empathy, understanding, and connection. So, next time you pick up a book, remember: don’t just walk on the words. Dive in, and grasp the soul of them.