Reading Too Much Into It?

I am inclined to spend too much time reading. So, as well as all the fiction I am reading at the moment (mostly fantasy), I am also reading "The Uses Of Enchantment" by Bruno Bettelheim, "How Life Imitates Chess" by Gary Kaparov, and "The Shadow Of The Object" by Christopher Bollas.  I have also just picked up a copy of "The Hero With A Thousand Faces" by Joseph Campbell, but have not started that one yet.

I think it is interesting how certain ideas and themes can repeat themselves in slightly different ways in these books. At the moment, the idea that seems to be jumping out at me is the need for careful reflection and self-awareness if we are to grow and mature in any way. Kasparov emphasises this a lot in his book. He does not believe that there is a formula for success that will apply to everyone (beyond the idea of hard work and self-awareness - and that he says is not a formula). Bettelheim also feels that people have a tendency to assume that age will bring maturity and wisdom. But, without reflection and an intention to improve ourselves in some way, that will just make us older versions of our younger selves, with the same weaknesses, preferences and habits.

And I think this is partly why I started out with this blog. I wanted to get into the habit of thinking and writing about life - my life, in particular - and I wanted to do something a bit different to my usual diary or journal writing, which seems to have gotten into a repetitive rut for now.