Fiction does something unique in that it takes us out of our heads and puts us into other people's heads. And I think reading, and experiencing fiction through reading, is something that gives us empathy. And that, I think, is vital. It takes us out of our lives. Without reading, you're stuck with one life. Reading gives you more than one life. It gives you an infinite number of lives, which I think is wonderful. Or at least, not infinite, but as many as there are books on the shelves.

Summary

This quote highlights the power of fiction to cultivate empathy and expand our perspectives. Through reading, we have the opportunity to delve into the minds and experiences of different characters, ultimately gaining a better understanding of their emotions and motivations. By immersing ourselves in these various narratives, we break free from the limitations of our own lives and gain access to an infinite number of alternate realities. This ability to inhabit multiple lives enriches our understanding of the world and enhances our capacity for empathy, making reading an essential and wonderful part of our lives.

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