There is hard evidence to suggest the rise of what is now called ‘performative reading’. ADVERTISEMENTHowever, such is the dominance of performative reading that it often creates false binaries. Even those reading on public transport — a practice that predates social media rituals — can no longer evade similar scrutiny. Moreover, not everything about the act of reading online ought to be dismissed. After all, in the modern, fragmented, disjointed world, online reading groups can offer an effective substitute for the diminishing culture of informal literary conversations and book clubs.

Source: The Telegraph January 25, 2026 02:04 UTC