I was talking to my friend Carol yesterday, and she told me something I had never heard before. Carol studied and has specialized in learning disabilities. When I told her that I couldn’t read as a child and didn’t read my first book until I was in my twenties, she was suprised and curious. She asked me just a few questions, and in less than five minutes, she explained to me that my problem was related to Figure-ground perception, and I think she’s right.
I got through school without this ever being detected. I would look at a page of words and not know where to focus. I understood that sentences begin with the first word, but still my perception was overwhelmed by the entire page. I couldn’t easily separate the black letters from the white background. The white space competed for my attention as much as the black letters.
This is all making so much sense to me. I compensated for this deficiency by becoming a good listener.
It was only through shear will and determination that I was able to teach myself how to read when I was a young adult in my early twenties. Even so, it still takes great concentration to track words against a page. If somebody happens to hand me a card or a comic strip or even a menu, something that requires a quick read, I go blank. It’s strange, but I’m use to it. I have to focus intently before I can grasp what’s written. In those quick instances, it usually helps if I read outloud what’s in front of me.
I’m still turning this diagnosis over in my mind, but I find it fascinating and enlightening. What really amazes me is that I broke through. Where did I get the determination to read, then go to college, and then finally manage to write a complete novel? Pearls My Mother Wore has been a long time coming. I truly feel as though I have been the recipient of a miracle.
This famous illustration demonstrates field-ground perception. Do you see a vase, or two faces in profile?
See you next Friday, and please use the “comments” link to share your thoughts on this topic or anything else you care to add.
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