I’ve been downsizing my library, so I have been spending my free-time in the past year rereading books before I give them away. Here’s a character’s take on crime-novel reading.
I have my own theories on the popularity of mysteries and crime fiction. And of course on my own readership of those genres. But hey, it would take more time than I have free right now to explain the habits of a lifetime and the psychology behind it. Just know that because of the Pandemic my friends haven’t had to listen to me lecture about it at lunch dates.
Take some time today to read one of your favorite authors, whatever the genre of the book. Connect your brain to something that brought comfort or excitement or joy or intellectual curiosity—then come back to the tasks at hand refreshed.
Above, Brush pen and ink wash sketches from, of course, a crime show. In a 8.5 x 11 inch landscape Hahnemühle watercolor journal.
I would love to hear your thoughts on this topic. I was a psychologist before I went to law school, and I’ve always retained a keen interest in human behavior. I loved and read many mysteries when I was a young woman, but lately I’ve been watching a lot of true crime documentaries. And who can forget the genius and appeal of Capote’s In Cold Blood?
Sharon, it will be awhile. I have a 4-drawer file cabinet crammed full of my research notes and my draft writing on this topic…someday maybe I’ll distill it down into one essay??? Right now, back to sorting my library and culling books!