Throughout history, literature has been a mirror to society, capturing its evolution, revolutions, conflicts, and ambition. As readers, we often find comfort, inspiration, or severe realities through the world of words. Yet, in the 21st century, with a sharp rise in digitalization, literature’s canvas (画布) has expanded dramatically, leading to both enthusiasm and worry among literary enthusiasts.
Dr. Elizabeth Montgomery, a famous literary critic and professor at the Langford Literary University, set about an extensive study to decipher (破译) the changing landscape of literature in the digital age. “The printed word has a touchable beauty and permanence. Digital platforms, on the other hand, are vast, changing, and developing. This dichotomy (二分法) is interesting but also challenges traditional literary boundaries,” reflected Montgomery.
Montgomery’s study lasted over two years, involving a diverse group of 1,200 participants from various age groups and backgrounds. They were divided into three groups: the first experienced literature only through printed books, the second through e-books, and the third through interactive digital stories, which combine text, graphics, and user interaction.
Feedback revealed diverse insights. Printed book fans valued the sensory experience — the feel of pages, the smell of a book — claiming that it deepened their connection to the content. E-book readers appreciated the convenience and portability but missed the touchable experience of traditional books. However, the third group, who engaged with interactive digital stories, expressed excitement at being part of the story, though some felt it weakened the literary essence.
Further, the study found that interactive stories appealed especially to younger readers, suggesting a potential shift in future literary consumption patterns. Montgomery notes, “While traditionalists might find the digital development of literature disturbing, it’s undeniable that the boundary between readers and stories is becoming more foggy. The key is to balance innovation with the preservation of literary integrity.”
【小题1】What was the purpose of Dr. Elizabeth Montgomery’s study?| A．To promote digital platforms over printed books. |
| B．To explore the impact of digitalization on literature. |
| C．To present the landscape of the digital literature. |
| D．To challenge the traditional literary boundary. |
| A．They found it convenient to carry the books around. |
| B．They believed the books lacked the literary essence. |
| C．They thought they were happy to be involved in the story. |
| D．They felt the sensory experience promoted their understanding. |
| A．Traditional books may be preferred by elder people. |
| B．Digital stories will enjoy equal preference of all ages. |
| C．Interactive stories may see a rise among younger readers. |
| D．E-books will replace printed books and dominate the market. |
| A．Objective. | B．Doubtful. | C．Excited. | D．Unconcerned. |
