"To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable that is spelled out is a spark".
Victor Hugo
I do have a fondness for words which describe the joy of reading as spark-like. It seems so very apt to me - as if our intelligences are sitting there waiting to combust when we discover how to decipher and makes sense of the writings of the world!
I guess it can also be seen as a difficult thing - fire can be destructive; but I think the aim is to suggest the transformative nature of ignition, of fire. How something moves from one state to another in that instant. And then often, it just takes off.
Sometimes it can be contained and guided and coerced along; at others it simply follows its own path and interests.
I truly believe that learning to read and having the opportunity and ability to do so is just like creating a spark - it transforms and illuminates.
A photo from a power outage at the cottage - - still enough light to read by!
Victor Hugo
I do have a fondness for words which describe the joy of reading as spark-like. It seems so very apt to me - as if our intelligences are sitting there waiting to combust when we discover how to decipher and makes sense of the writings of the world!
I guess it can also be seen as a difficult thing - fire can be destructive; but I think the aim is to suggest the transformative nature of ignition, of fire. How something moves from one state to another in that instant. And then often, it just takes off.
Sometimes it can be contained and guided and coerced along; at others it simply follows its own path and interests.
I truly believe that learning to read and having the opportunity and ability to do so is just like creating a spark - it transforms and illuminates.
A photo from a power outage at the cottage - - still enough light to read by!
a perfect illustration of the additive quality of light and reading both ... and the shadows created by the candles are a study in and of themselves
ReplyDeleteYes it worked well as an illustrator Liz! And your comment re shadows made me look properly and see - thank you.
DeleteOh yes, I know what you mean ! What kind of place would this be without books ?!
ReplyDeleteBooks do really make a difference to our life don't they? I am grateful that I am one of the ones who love them...
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