r/books discussion

Does anyone else find themselves to be quite ritualistic in how they set up to read? I've noticed the last year that I most enjoy reading my book in a cozy spot, but only if I prepare myself a coffee or a tea first (maybe a not-so-guilty indulgence on chocolate or cookies as well.)

On top of preparing myself a hot beverage, if I'm at home, I'll throw on some classical music to set the mood just right before starting on my pages. If I'm in public, I'll usually stop at a cafe and order a latte and let any noises around me become ambient.

I'm not sure why I do this, but am I alone in this or do you ritualistically set up your reading environment?

I have to say that I don't really have any kind of ritual. When I want to read I just pop a squat and do so. Sometimes I remember to turn on music, sometimes I don't. Although I do try to have a drink nearby so I don't have to get up if I'm thirsty and likewise I try to remember to set my phone next to me in case it goes off.

No rituals, but sometimes when I have a hard time finding a book I want to read, I start reading the first chapter of them and discard at will, even books that I would later read. Mostly happens when I'm restless.

Annie wrote: "No rituals, but sometimes when I have a hard time finding a book I want to read, I start reading the first chapter of them and discard at will, even books that I would later read. Mostly happens wh..."
That's interesting! I have this thing where once I commit I have to follow through. So even if the book is awful, I'll try and read through the whole thing. (See: Twilight... *shudder*)

There are some exceptions, as in, when I was reading A Clash of Kings and I still have to read through the rest of it... it just plateaued for me and it became heavy enough that I would commit to a new book.

I find myself easily distracted and having a sort of ritual (cozy spot, beverage) really helps me focus for some reason. I think it's kind of like how some people don't really rely on the caffeine, but the ritual of having coffee really helps them set the pace for the day.