Fiction vs. Fact: My Reading Journey and Preferences

When it comes to book reading, many enthusiasts have an inclination towards either fiction or non-fiction, each offering unique perspectives and experiences. My own journey in reading has been a blend of fascination and escapism.

Escaping Into Fiction

As a person who finds reading to be an escape, fiction books have always held a special place in my heart. They offer a multitude of worlds and characters that I can immerse myself in, often during moments of anxiety or stress. Unlike non-fiction, which tends to focus on facts and figures, fiction provides an emotional escape. Plot twists, character development, and thrilling adventures are just a few reasons why I’ve been drawn to the genre for years.

One of my favorite aspects of fiction is the ability to explore different characters and their motivations. When reading about a heroic figure, I find myself empathizing with their struggles and triumphs. There are also the villains, who, despite being the antagonists, can provide a believable and engaging narrative. These characters often mirror aspects of human nature that we may not normally confront, making the reading experience richer and more meaningful.

My preference for fiction is not just personal taste; it’s also a form of therapy. Many of the characters and stories I’ve encountered in fiction books have helped me navigate my own anxiety and uncertainties in life. Fiction allows me to step outside my reality, where the pressure to be perfect or the fear of judgment is replaced by the freedom to explore and understand the human condition.

From Science Fiction to Non-Fiction

My reading preferences have shifted over the years. While I used to enjoy science fiction and fantasy novels, my current reading focus has been on non-fiction works. Reading non-fiction, as opposed to fiction, has a different emotional and intellectual impact. Books like The Bonfire of the Vanities were one of my last forays into fiction, reflecting my thirst for narratives rooted in reality.

Non-fiction books can be categorized in a number of ways—biographies, memoirs, historical accounts, and more. Some of my recent non-fiction reads include memoirs such as Stepping on My Cloak and Dagger, which is based on the author's experiences in the OSS during WWII. These books offer a deep dive into real events, often providing insights and reflections that transcending the typical story arc of fiction.

The distinction between fiction and non-fiction blurs when it comes to memoirs. Memoirs, like Stepping on My Cloak and Dagger and HMS Ulysses (which describes the torpedoing of the ship during WWII), are based on real events but still deliver an engaging narrative. While memoirs can be critical in terms of fact accuracy, creative non-fiction may still involve some literary license to enhance the storytelling.

Assessing What is 'Better'

It’s important to note that comparing fiction with non-fiction is like comparing apples and oranges. Each genre serves a unique purpose. Fiction allows us to explore imagined worlds, while non-fiction provides a window into the real. To cite the famous example, one cannot simply declare that one is better than the other; much like asking whether a car is better than a power saw, it’s subjective and depends on the intended use.

Similarly, when it comes to book quality, it’s a matter of personal taste. There is no objective measure by which to evaluate the 'best' book. However, if we consider my own reading habits, I have read approximately 15,000 novels in my life and around 800 non-fiction books. This ratio certainly suggests a personal preference, but it doesn’t necessarily denote which genre is objectively better. Each book has its own merit, and understanding and appreciating that is crucial for a well-rounded reader.