How to Read and Why Paperback –First Edition

Author Harold Bloom Publisher Scribner format paperback Condition like new Summary ​In "How to Read and Why," esteemed literary critic Harold Bloom presents a passionate guide to the art of reading, emphasizing its intrinsic value in enriching our inner lives. Bloom advocates for reading as a solitary activity that fosters self-discovery and personal growth, urging readers to engage deeply with literature to "strengthen the self, and to learn its authentic interests." He meticulously examines a selection of literary forms—short stories, poems, novels, and plays—offering insights into works by authors such as William Shakespeare, Anton Chekhov, and Emily Dickinson. Bloom's analyses serve not only to illuminate the texts but also to inspire readers to explore these works independently, highlighting the enduring relevance of classic literature. By encouraging an intimate relationship with books, Bloom asserts that reading well is "the most healing of pleasures," capable of alleviating lon