When we talk about comfort literature, we refer to the books, essays, or poems all just sitting in our physical or digital libraries. They’re the ones we turn to for emotional support, familiarity, and escape. So in this podcast episode, we discuss the ones that we find the most comfort in.
Classics
Just for the fun of it, many readers often find solace in re-reading old favorites or exploring light-hearted genres. Some lean toward reading the classics, exploring themes revolving around the 18th or 19th centuries.
Though revered, though, they can sometimes feel too serious or demanding, leading to some reading struggle with authors like Shakespeare. As we mentioned in the podcast, comfort literature isn’t always about intellectual rigor—sometimes it’s about ease and familiarity.
Young Adult
Special mention on this podcast episode also are the young adult (YA) novels, which offer an alternative from heavier literature. Series like Percy Jackson provide a sense of adventure and a familiar setting that feels like revisiting an old friend. YA books are often filled with hope, growth, and self-discovery—qualities that can be especially comforting when dealing with the stresses of adulting.
With books meant for younger readers, the tone is typically lighter, and the language accessible, making them perfect for when you need something that doesn’t demand too much from you but still offers an engaging story.
Fiction
Fiction, particularly short stories, also serves as an ideal escape. Unlike lengthy novels, short stories are quick to get into and get out of, providing a comforting break from reality without the time commitment that longer works require. This quick immersion and escape make them perfect for readers who might feel overwhelmed by their to-read list but still crave the joy of reading.
Essay
Essays, particularly personal or creative ones, can also provide comfort. Nowadays, social media like Facebook have allowed creative writers to share their stories in more accessible ways. Some stories reflect our personal experiences or remind us of our place in the larger world, offering us a unique kind of solace. Reading someone else’s reflections can also make us feel seen or remind us that there’s more to life than the ones where we’re at.
Poetry
Poetry, too, can be a powerful form of comfort literature. While poetry often deals with raw emotions and life’s complexities, its brevity and intensity can be cathartic. It offers a distilled form of expression that resonates deeply without requiring prolonged engagement.
Fantasy
For some, fantasy literature offers the ultimate escape. In uncertain times, when reality feels overwhelming, the chance to dive into another world is not just appealing but necessary. Fantasy books transport readers to places far removed from the difficulties of real life. They offer hope and the possibility of something magical and different, a far cry from the stresses of daily life.
Anthologies and Fan Fiction
Anthologies, fan fiction, and even humorous or light-hearted pieces let us know that there are so many ways to cope in life. Whether the choice is serious or light, it ultimately comes down to individual preference and how one wishes to cope with life’s complexities.
In times of stress or uncertainty, we seek out what brings us joy, what feels familiar, and what offers a sense of escape. Comfort literature is a reminder that the act of reading, much like the act of watching a favorite show, can be a refuge. Like what others say, time wasted is not a wasted time if you’re enjoying all of it.
Just like how we re-read beloved books or re-watch our favorite films or series. We already know how the story ends, and that certainty brings a sense of security. There’s no tension or anxiety about what will happen, only the pleasure of revisiting characters and plots that have brought joy before.
Despite the growing backlog of unread books on many of our shelves, comfort literature continues to draw us in. It’s less about discovery and more about familiarity, which is soothing in times of uncertainty.
Listen in full to Creatinuum Episode 38, Stories That Soothe: The Familiar Joys of Comfort Literature available on Simplecast, Spotify, Apple, and other platforms.
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