Title: Task: 3.3.1 Literature and my work
Course: Art and creative expression 1 cp (VIERKO TP1) > Section: 3. Creative self-expression by writing

Literature and my work

Foto: Christopher Michel (Linkki: File:Person reading a book.jpg - Wikimedia Commons)

Why should one read literature?

 

In general, it is evident that reading all kinds of literature is beneficial. The positive effects of literature can be gained not only from reading fiction but also from engaging with non-fiction and opinion pieces. Literature impacts us whether we read physical books or e-books. 

 

What benefits does reading and literature offer? How can reading support one's work? Literature can support one's work in many ways, as numerous studies suggest that reading can develop skills that are specifically needed in the professional world. Additionally, various studies indicate that reading literature has numerous benefits that can be both psychological and physical. 

 

Firstly, reading enhances social skills that are also necessary in the workplace. It expands vocabulary and improves self-expression. These skills are crucial for interaction in the professional environment. For example, according to a Finnish physician Atte Virolainen, the ability to express oneself and a broad vocabulary impact even the job application phase, as the applicant can describe themselves and their skills more comprehensively. 

 

In some jobs, literature can even be directly applied to the tasks at hand. For instance, someone working in social work might organize reading sessions or address emotions through reading or writing. 

 

The ability to empathize with others is also essential in the workplace. Research shows that reading literature increases empathy because it allows readers to explore different human experiences and lives. Reading, particularly so-called high literature, also affects brain function. The impact of reading is noticeable in the brain long after reading, and the more complex the narrative structure, the more actively the brain engages. 

 

Memory is another crucial aspect in the workplace, and reading has a positive impact on memory. Reading improves long-term memory and helps practice the art of concentration. If one hasn’t read for a while, focusing on reading might be challenging, but persistence in reading gradually enhances concentration skills. 

 

There are many physical benefits of reading as well: it lowers heart rate, relaxes the body, and helps to forget stressful thoughts. Reading in one's free time thus helps in coping better physically in the workplace. 

 

Reading literature also has broader impacts. It helps in understanding oneself better. Through literature, one can strengthen their social or cultural identity. A frequent reader often becomes adept at expressing opinions, thus contributing to social equality. Vocabulary also improves through reading, especially when engaging with both classic and contemporary literature. Reading provides tools for understanding, interpreting, and analyzing information, thus preventing social exclusion. A person is less easily deceived if they understand what they are reading and can recognize false information. This way, individuals can better stand up for themselves in everyday life and the workplace. 

 

“It could even be thought that a person who reads a lot is a friend anyone would want: intelligent, empathetic, and inventive.” (Puska) 

 

Instructions for the task

A. Watch the following videos and choose the correct answer option. 

Background material: Videos from the Lukuliike -project. 

1. Dog's Job Link to the video:

Question: Why did the person in the video start working as a dog?  

a. Because they enjoy the outdoors  

b. Because they love animals  

c. Because they cannot read and don’t know what’s written in the contract.

2. Eye Candy Link to the video:

Question: Why does the person in the video eat sheep’s eyes?  

a. Because they like them  

b. Because they cannot read and don’t understand what they’re ordering

c. Because they are adventurous 

 

3. Scarlet Flower Link to the video:

Question:  Did the person in the video get the haircut they wanted?  

a. Yes, because she is a fiery type  

b. No, because she couldn’t read what the bottle contained

c. Maybe she did, maybe she didn’t 

 

B. My Profession in Literature 

 

Are there works of fiction that depict your profession or touch upon it in some way? Choose one example where your field is depicted or referenced. If possible, read the work. Find the following information about the work and answer the questions: 

 

What is the title of the work? 

Who is the author? 

What does the work address? 

How is your profession portrayed in the work? 

What do you think about how your profession is portrayed in the book? What thoughts does the work evoke? 

If you cannot find any works related to or touching upon your field, only answer the following question: 

 

Why might I not find works related to my profession? 

 

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