Books and movies – the longtime rivals of literature and enjoyable pastimes.  There are many old, classical stories.  Many of these books have become modified movies.

The beautiful works of literature are written in a difficult almost foreign vocabulary.  But, in my opinion the rich language only adds to a book’s brilliance.  When these original classics are “modernized” they are transformed into a normal, everyday bunch of scenes.    

Unfortunately, reading’s popularity has dropped from hobby to chore.  Libraries are outnumbered by movie theatres and cinemas.  Real classics are being replaced by so called revised versions.  Instead of reading the captivating novels and experiencing the magic as the stories pull you into their pages and cover you with their mystery and wonder…people just watch the movie.

Sixty percent of America has not read any of the many classics.  This is partly understandable, but 42% of America doesn’t even know most of these classics even exist. (The percentage of Americans above recognize only citizens older then seven. Ages 8 through _ are counted.)  How wrong is that?  After all the hard work the authors put into stories, a reasonable amount of our own country doesn’t even appreciate it!  I, for one, think it simply appalling.

 However, a movie has its points too.  For example, it is easier to watch than it is to read when you’re under stress.  Also, movies today are so well made they are pure fun to watch.  Movies that claim the title of a novel try to re-inact the basic plot. They change most of the story but since many Americans don’t really care no one is doing anything about it. Don’t you want to preserve the amazing works of famous writers? Why can’t we use theatre and film to save our precious literature favorites? But now, it can be doubted your great-grandchildren will someday ever feel the magic of a true novel’s mystical mayhem. Yes, movies are often something of a “visual feast”. But ask yourself this:   does that really matter now, with all the other pointless cartoon shows playing ‘round the clock?                                                                      

Books are preferable to a film.  First, when you read you can imagine scenes your own way.  Second, you can take a book with you almost anywhere, instead of having to sit in a special room.  More importantly, language is a richer medium than pictures for reading.                                                                                         

Movies do take out many of the finest scenes.  They frequently add new lines, sometimes even new characters!  This doesn’t mean all films are the same.  There are original works meant for only entertainment purposes.  And there are some who give a bad name to reading.  But there are still some meant to inform, to amuse, to captivate, and capture the audience in their magic.  These gain even my respect.  Therefore, if you want sheer escapist fun, a movie may be fine, but, in contrast, if you want your mind to grow, stick with books.