The Values And Nature Of Reading Essay

The Value and Nature of Reading Through the Eyes of Malcolm X and Richard Rodriguez
Connie Nollner
University of Alaska Anchorage

Presented to Professor’s Victoria Sansome
In partial fulfillment of the requirements
For ENGL A111
Abstract
When an individual reads, the value they get out of it depends on their perspective and background. These things also influence the nature of reading, causing each person to experience reading differently. Malcolm X opened his world to a great deal of knowledge, discovered his own cultural roots, and enhanced his religious beliefs. In turn, his newly discovered knowledge led him to become an activist, a leader of the people. Richard Rodriguez also gained knowledge from reading. Unlike Malcolm X however, it separated him from his own family and culture rather than bringing him closer to it. For Rodriguez reading was simply another rung on the ladder, instead of an escape it was another necessary step on the road to his goal (Rodriguez, R., 1982). The value of reading was different to each of them because of their individual histories, while the nature of reading was also unique to each man.

The value and nature of reading are different for each person based on the individual’s experiences, culture, and life history. When an individual reads, the value they get out of it depends on their perspective and background. These things also influence the nature of reading, causing each person to experience reading differently. Through reading, Malcolm X opened his world to a great deal of knowledge, discovered his own cultural roots, and enhanced his religious beliefs. In turn, his newly discovered knowledge led him to become an activist, a leader of the people. Reading was an escape from prison and allowed Malcolm X to free his mind (Malcolm X., 1965). Richard Rodriguez also gained knowledge from reading. Unlike Malcolm X however, it separated him from his own family and culture rather than bringing him closer to it....