TED Talks Daily

What reading slowly taught me about writing | Jacqueline Woodson

Sep 12, 2019
Jacqueline Woodson, celebrated author known for her lyrical storytelling, shares her journey of reading slowly and its profound impact on her writing. She reflects on how savoring words deepens understanding and creates meaningful connections with stories. Woodson emphasizes the importance of slowing down in our fast-paced world, highlighting how traditional storytelling honors heritage and amplifies marginalized voices. Ultimately, she invites listeners to appreciate literature as a way to feel less alone and to spark change.
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ANECDOTE

Woodson's Reading Habits

  • Jacqueline Woodson recounts her childhood, emphasizing her love for slow, immersive reading.
  • She used her finger to follow the words, defying instructions to read faster, and found deeper meaning in stories like "The Selfish Giant."
INSIGHT

The Power of Story

  • Woodson discovered "the fictive dream," the immersive experience within a story's world.
  • She recognizes storytelling as an ancient form of connection, driving human progress and preserving knowledge.
INSIGHT

Stories in a Noisy World

  • Despite the increasing noise and speed of modern technology, stories retain their power to transport us.
  • They introduce us to new perspectives and experiences, regardless of the format.
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