[Max Goodman]

Fiction writer Nicholson Baker, if his U and I gives an accurate picture, frequently reads literature, including novels, only partially, but still retains details, including details of language. This shows me that my way of reading novels--starting at the beginning and plowing through till I reach the end or lose interest--is pedestrian.

I'm curious about how you smart folks read. I assume that most poems aren't long enough for there to be a lot of variety in how readers approach them, but I'm curious about anything you're willing to share.