Beyond Spotify Wrapped: Why We’re Turning to Books as a Resistance Strategy
In December, the internet isn’t filled with snow; it’s filled with Spotify Wrapped posts. These curated playlists, representing a year of listening habits, have become a cultural phenomenon, a digital self-portrait painted in song. But as societal anxieties rise – from political turmoil to environmental disasters – a growing number of people are finding that music, a largely passive experience, isn’t enough. Instead, they’re turning to a more deliberate form of self-reflection and, surprisingly, a form of quiet resistance: reading. And not just reading, but meticulously tracking what they read.
The Rise of the Analog Reading Stack
While apps like StoryGraph and Goodreads offer data-driven insights into reading habits, a growing movement champions a decidedly low-tech approach: the book stack. The concept is simple – after finishing a book, place it sideways on a shelf, creating a physical monument to your reading progress. It’s a tangible representation of time invested, a visual reminder of intellectual exploration. This isn’t about optimizing for quantity; it’s about fostering intention. As one reader discovered, the book stack gamifies the habit, turning it into a personal challenge and a source of motivation.
From Palate Cleansers to Preparing for Uncertainty
This return to reading isn’t simply about escaping into fictional worlds. A recent trend, highlighted by one reader’s 2025 book stack, reveals a growing preoccupation with understanding and preparing for potential societal upheaval. While classics like “All the President’s Men” and “All the Light We Cannot See” found their place, it was books directly addressing the threat of authoritarianism that truly stood out. Timothy Snyder’s “On Tyranny,” a concise handbook drawing lessons from 20th-century totalitarian regimes, has become a modern-day survival guide, selling over a million copies since its release in 2017.
Why Fiction Matters in Times of Crisis
But it’s not just non-fiction offering guidance. Hans Fallada’s “Alone in Berlin,” based on the true story of a couple resisting the Nazi regime through anonymous postcards, provides a powerful example of small acts of defiance. The book’s enduring relevance lies in its depiction of ordinary people finding courage in the face of overwhelming oppression. Fallada’s own experience living under Nazi rule infuses the narrative with a raw authenticity, reminding us that resistance doesn’t always require grand gestures; it can be found in everyday acts of civil disobedience.
The Power of Small Disobedience
The lessons from these books are clear: fear is a tyrant’s greatest weapon, and a citizenry that refuses to be intimidated is far more difficult to control. This isn’t about advocating for reckless rebellion, but about cultivating a mindset of critical thinking, speaking out against injustice, and persistently challenging the status quo. As Snyder argues, defending institutions and believing in truth are crucial safeguards against tyranny. And, crucially, it’s about allowing ourselves moments of joy and escape – the “palate cleansers” like the works of Vonnegut, Gogol, and Lahiri – to sustain us through difficult times.
The Future of Reading as a Form of Civic Engagement
The trend of turning to books as a means of understanding and navigating a complex world is likely to accelerate. We’re entering an era defined by increasing political polarization, economic uncertainty, and environmental challenges. In this environment, the ability to think critically, analyze information, and empathize with different perspectives will be more valuable than ever. Reading, particularly literature that explores themes of power, resistance, and social justice, can equip us with the tools we need to navigate these challenges. Furthermore, the deliberate act of reading – and tracking that reading – offers a sense of agency and control in a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable. This isn’t just about escaping reality; it’s about preparing for it.
What books are shaping your understanding of the world? Share your recent reads and insights in the comments below!
