Right now, it’s finding the books of authors who influenced the people I am inspired by.

I know someone who does that too. He doesn’t wanna read popular authors. Ofc, to each his own. You do what you want. But I just think it’s a little silly. You can only read so many books in a lifetime. Why make it a trial and error? Many books (and authors) are popular for a reason and maybe sometimes it’s not too bad to trust our collective wisdom. Anyway, reading a book doesn’t automatically mean you’ll agree with the author’s views and perspectives, no? Often the best part about reading popular authors, esp if you’re a little rebellious, is finding out which ones you disagree with (and yet still agree with) in some ways.

What exactly is your goal for doing this? Not hating, just genuinely curious. Cheers, friend

The Joke by Milan Kundera might be a good one