Proceedings of the 8th International Conference on Research in Humanities and Social Sciences
Year: 2023
DOI:
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Navigating Immediacy and Depth: Culture Clash Between Victorian Serial Reading and Contemporary Social Media Culture
Dr. Cam Khaski Graglia
ABSTRACT:
This lecture proposes an exploration of the dynamic contrast between the Victorian serial reading model and the culture of immediacy prevalent in contemporary social media platforms. The study aims to critically examine the clash between these two reading habits, delving into their respective merits and drawbacks while attempting to delineate an ideal reading profile in the digital age.
Victorian serial reading, characterised by its serialised publication of literary works, fostered a culture of sustained engagement and depth. Readers of serialised works like those by Charles Dickens or Wilkie Collins encountered narratives gradually, fostering anticipation, discussion, and deep immersion into the storylines. Contrastingly, the culture of immediacy in today’s social media platforms promotes rapid consumption of bite-sized information, offering instant gratification but potentially compromising depth and critical engagement.
This lecture seeks to juxtapose the virtues and pitfalls of these contrasting reading models. By examining the immersive nature of Victorian serial reading alongside the allure and drawbacks of immediacy in social media consumption, the presentation aims to highlight the impact of these reading habits on attention span, critical thinking, and emotional engagement.
Furthermore, the lecture will endeavour to outline an ideal reading profile that harmonises the best aspects of both reading habits, aiming to strike a balance between depth and immediacy. It will explore strategies to encourage sustained engagement with literary works in the digital age, utilising the benefits of serial reading’s immersive experience while harnessing the advantages of quick access and connectivity offered by social media.
This lecture hopes to prompt reflection on contemporary reading habits and offer insights into cultivating an ideal reading approach that amalgamates depth, engagement, and the benefits of rapid information access in today’s digitised world.
keywords: Victorian serial reading, social media culture, immediacy, depth, reading habits, digital age