Site icon BIG OTHER

The Politics of Reading

So, I’m reading this book. And I’m pretty much liking the thing. As I’m wont to do, I search the author (I found this particular book through it being mentioned in some interview or other), because I’m starting to get intrigued about the other books he’s written, etc. I find out the writer is a right-wing radio show host.

Now, usually, I don’t let a writer’s personal attributes sway how I feel about the writing. I’ve gotten pretty good at this, I think. But now I’m feeling wonky about this book that I was liking. I’ve listened to some right-wing radio and it really turns me off. But there hasn’t been anything alarming so far in the book… beside a religious character (who I’ve been slightly frightened of dominating too much of the narrative). Now I’m thinking “Oh, man, what am I in for?” instead of “Oh, man, what’s going to happen next?”

Have you ever had an experience like this? Tell me to keep reading! Tell me it’ll pay off! Tell me I’m not being treated to subliminal propaganda! Or Tell me to put it down quick! My fate is in your hands!

  • Ryan W. Bradley has pumped gas, changed oil, painted houses, swept the floor of a mechanic's shop, worked on a construction crew in the Arctic Circle, fronted a punk band, and managed an independent children's bookstore. He now works in marketing. His latest book is Nothing but the Dead and Dying, a collection of stories set in Alaska. He lives in southern Oregon with his wife and two sons.

Exit mobile version