what does William Phelps mean when he wrote the quote "I divide readers into two classes; those who read to remember and those who read to forget.
Thank you for using the Jiskha Homework Help Forum. Sometimes when you want to know more about a certain subject, you read about it or if you have had a certain experience, you read someone else's thoughts about it to remember your experience better. Other times, you have a lot of worries, and pick up a book to read so you can concentrate on something else.
Just think about when you read and why and I'm sure the meaning will come to you.
Reading can be both a learning process - in which you are reading to remember- or a relaxation, in which you are reading to get rid of the trials and tribulations of the day.
The quote "I divide readers into two classes; those who read to remember and those who read to forget" by William Phelps suggests that there are two types of readers and their approach to reading.
To understand the meaning behind this quote, it is helpful to analyze the context and background of William Phelps, who was an American author, literary critic, and professor of English. Phelps was known for his work in education and his interest in the relationship between literature and personal growth.
Based on this, it can be inferred that Phelps is making a distinction between two different reading purposes or methods.
1. Readers who read to remember: These readers seek knowledge, understanding, and intellectual growth through their reading. They actively engage with the material, absorbing information, and retaining it in their memory. They view reading as a means to expand their knowledge, gain insights, and remember the ideas they encounter.
2. Readers who read to forget: On the other hand, these readers approach books as a form of escapism or entertainment. Their primary goal is not to retain information or gain knowledge, but rather to temporarily escape from their own realities, immerse themselves in a fictional world, or simply enjoy the act of reading without much concern for what they read.
Phelps' quote suggests that readers can fall into one of these two categories, although it is essential to note that there may be a spectrum between the two extremes, and individuals can have elements of both approaches depending on the context and content of their reading.
Understanding this quote requires considering the motivation and purpose behind reading. Some readers read to gain knowledge, while others read purely for enjoyment or as a way to disconnect from their daily lives.