In a reflective piece, sophomore student Sareena Naganand from Piscataway, New Jersey, explores the transformative power of literature amidst the pressures of academic life. Naganand recounts her experience while reading Kelly Rimmer’s historical fiction novel, The Things We Cannot Say, which delves into the German invasion of Poland during World War II. This moment of immersion sparked a recognition of how stories shape values and perspectives.
While sitting in the Student Center, surrounded by fellow students, Naganand found herself deeply absorbed in the narrative, only to realize that time had slipped away. “How did the main character’s brother just get killed like that?” she pondered, revealing her emotional investment in the story. This intense engagement reminded her of past literary experiences that significantly influenced her understanding of history and the human condition.
Balancing Academic Demands and the Joy of Reading
Naganand reflects on her increasing difficulty in finding time to escape into books. The constant reminders of homework and studying create a mental barrier, pulling her attention away from the pages. “It’s not that I don’t enjoy reading as much as I used to,” she writes. Instead, she feels the need for a focused mindset, free from the clutter of academic obligations.
As she navigates a busy schedule, Naganand recognizes the irony in how easily she can lose herself in mindless scrolling on social media platforms such as Reels and Reddit. These distractions consume precious minutes, yet reading offers a more valuable respite. She grapples with the self-imposed pressure to achieve a state of flow when engaging with literature, questioning whether such expectations are necessary.
Despite the guilt that arises when she picks up a book, Naganand acknowledges that reading has been a cornerstone of her growth. Influential works like Paul Kalanithi’s When Breath Becomes Air provided her with insights into potential career paths at the intersection of medicine, innovation, and the humanities. Similarly, Thrity Umrigar’s The Secrets Between Us painted vivid pictures of urban Mumbai, inspiring her creative writing and reminding her of the resilience found in challenging circumstances.
The Lasting Impact of Stories
Naganand’s experiences highlight how literature can inspire and shape one’s worldview. She recalls the emotional connections formed through reading, where characters and their journeys provide solace during stressful times. “Succinct yet powerful dialogues have popped up in my head during times of stress, providing insight I didn’t know I needed,” she notes, underscoring the profound influence of storytelling.
The narratives she has encountered have not only entertained but also guided her values and actions, enabling her to navigate her own life’s challenges. As she reflects on her relationship with literature, Naganand emphasizes the importance of reading as a means of personal growth and understanding.
In the digital age, where distractions abound, Naganand’s journey serves as a reminder of the enduring power of stories. Her narrative encourages others to carve out moments for reading, irrespective of their busy lives. Ultimately, she concludes that the heart of reading lies in inspiration, exposure to diverse perspectives, and the connection forged through shared human experiences.
This exploration of literature’s impact is part of Naganand’s column, “The Daily Chai,” which focuses on finding joy in simple moments that enrich everyday life.
