You DON'T Highlight Fiction?

Many of you seemed surprised to learn that I highlight fiction, and some questioned why I would do that. I thought I'd give you a peek at the most important thing I take note of in every piece of fiction I read... namely, "What is the author's worldview?" That's a crucial question to ask if you want to become a discerning reader.

I made a bookmark I use to remind myself of 5 basic questions I want to ask in order to determine a particular author's worldview. As I read, I look for the answers, HIGHLIGHTING and writing notes in the column of the book as I find evidences in the text.

1. What is the author's view of Reality? [e.g. Atheistic? Deistic? Pantheistic? Biblical?]

2. What does he/she believe is the nature of the external world? [e.g. ordered or chaotic? material or spiritual?]

3. What is his/her view of human nature? [Are men viewed as basically good? As victims of their environment? As captive to their emotions? What happens after death?]

4. What are the ethics of the author? What is their basis of morality? [e.g. What is "good"? What is "evil"? Are there consequences to immoral decisions or is the author pragmatic, leading you to "root" for the sinner?]

5. What does he/she believe is the basis for history? [e.g. Cyclical? Progressive? Chance? Design?]

Why don't you write these five questions onto an index card and tuck it into the next work of fiction you read. You may be surprised to find yourself a more discerning reader by the end of the book!

[Gleaned from James Sires' The Joy of Reading; his updated version is How to Read Slowly]
[Related Post: How to Become a Better Reader]