How to Fake an Interest in Literature

Bookworms, unite, even if you’re faking it. Whether for lack of time or interest, keeping up with literature is not the easiest feat. Best-selling authors churn out books faster than the average person can read them and with the slew of titles already in existence, it’s almost impossible to play catch up. Read on for a lesson in how to fake an interest in literature without looking like a fraud.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

1. Brush up on oft-referenced classics such as Moby Dick, Pride and Prejudice, Native Son, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Heart of Darkness, Night and the Bible. You can find summaries through an Internet search engine or at your local library.
2. Peruse the New York Times bestseller lists for an idea of which authors are current.
3. Read up on one author of your choice. Knowing a lot about one writer can help overshadow the fact that you know little about many others.
4. Review basic writing devices. These can be found by typing “literary techniques” in an Internet search engine.
5. Wait for clues. If you’re in a tough conversation, listen for words that set off signals about the authors you’ve studied and segue into more comfortable territory.

Tips & Warnings

• Anecdotes can be your saving force. Relate what you know about the author or story to something in your own life and shift the focus off of literature.
• Don't get in too deep. You are likely to get caught if you offer false information on a topic.