The Journey of Unfinished Books: A Common Reader’s Struggle

Every avid reader has likely experienced the frustration of starting a book and not finishing it. This phenomenon is not uncommon, and many of us have a long list of partially read books waiting to be completed. In this article, we delve into the reasons behind this struggle, provide some practical advice, and explore the motivations that keep us reading.

Unfinished Books: A Personal Account

For many readers, the number of unfinished books can range from a handful to dozens, depending on their reading preferences and time constraints. My own experience is that I have started three books that I am determined to complete. One requires intensive editing, another is a tale that needs a middle section reworked, and the third is a non-fiction guide that needs more content and definition. Each of these books represents a personal challenge and a learning journey.

However, my experience also shows that it's not just the content of the book that can deter a reader. Hundreds of books might start, but not all get the chance to see the last page. If a book fails to capture my attention within the first few chapters, the likelihood of its completion diminishes dramatically. A book that holds my interest even up to the fifty-page mark might still not see the end, but it’s rare.

Library versus Bookstore

The kingdom of unfinished books also includes those from the library and those purchased. At the library, I follow a simple rule: the “three-chapter” rule. If a book fails to hold my interest after the first three chapters, I put it back without any further obligation. The convenience of not incurring any cost (aside from time) makes this practice easier. In contrast, purchased books usually reveal their worth within the first page or two, and if they don’t meet my expectations, I frequently end up closing the cover with regret.

One might wonder, can you abandon a book you have already purchased? For me, the answer is a firm no. Life is too short, and there are too many good books waiting to be read. A book that fails to maintain my interest from the first chapter to the last should not consume my reading time.

Recommendations and Personal Favorites

There are books that have stood the test of time and are recommended by even the most discerning readers. Yet, despite these recommendations, some books remain unfinished for various reasons. The Wheel of Time series, for example, is a monumental series by Robert Jordan. While I have started it several times, the writing style in the first book has always been a barrier, preventing me from finishing it or even getting through the entire series.

However, this does not mean that every book is doomed to become an unfinished book. On the contrary, I believe every book is worth reading, and I strive to complete at least one reading of every book I start. This includes critically acclaimed works like by Leo Tolstoy, which I attempted to read twice, both times stopping after the first hundred pages. The stark prose and the vast scope of the story make it difficult to maintain focus.

Another is , a book I have owned for years yet have barely read due to the tiny print, which proves challenging to read. by D. H. Lawrence, on the other hand, started with a few chapters but was put aside for a time, and then found itself misplaced during the bustle of daily life.

Conclusion

The journey of starting and not finishing books is a common plight for many readers. While there are valid reasons to abandon a book, it is a sacrifice to let go of a potential gem. Reading is a personal experience, and the choice to abandon a book ultimately depends on the reader’s preferences and the book’s overall value to them. The key is to find the right balance between starting a book and finishing it, and to treat each book with the respect it deserves.