* Early Exposure: Dickens grew up in a household where reading was valued. His father, John Dickens, was a clerk who loved to read aloud to his family. This early exposure likely fostered a love of stories and language in young Charles.
* Escapism and Imagination: Dickens' childhood was marked by poverty and hardship. Reading provided him with an escape from his difficult reality, allowing him to explore different worlds and possibilities. This love of escapism is reflected in many of his novels, which offer characters and settings that are vastly different from the real world.
* Social Commentary: Dickens was a keen observer of society and a passionate advocate for social justice. He used his writing to highlight the injustices and inequalities of his time. Reading, especially of newspapers and social commentary, informed his understanding of these issues and fueled his desire to use his voice for positive change.
* Inspiration and Craft: Reading was a crucial source of inspiration for Dickens' own writing. He was influenced by a wide range of authors, including Shakespeare, Jonathan Swift, and Sir Walter Scott. Studying their styles and techniques helped him develop his own unique voice and craft.
* Pleasure and Relaxation: Besides the deeper reasons, Dickens undoubtedly found reading to be a source of pure pleasure and relaxation. He was known to be an avid reader of novels, poetry, and even plays.
Ultimately, Charles Dickens' love of reading was likely a complex combination of factors, ranging from early exposure to social commentary, inspiration, and pure enjoyment. It played a vital role in shaping his literary genius and contributing to his enduring legacy.