While I find this essay goes a bit into alarmism in places, I do appreciate how it communicates the importance of long-form reading in the intellectual and social advancement of civilization. I appreciate the idea that the written word is a cognitive prosthesis that can enhance our intellectual capabilities beyond what was capable during the era of oral traditions. Screens have demonstrated the same potential, but the flood of highly addictive screen-content junk-food seems so much more destructive than the pulp novels of the past.

This progression applies not only to writing, but to life and other subjects as well. I can see it with my exploration of ludology. At first I consumed every possible game, then I became more discriminatory, I found compassion for the community, and eventually the willpower to maintain productivity.