I'm sure your reasons are just as valid as my own for forming an opinion, but I've always wondered if the people who enjoy reading because of the linguistic qualities, rather than the content, are really just spending too much time looking for ways to feel superior. Then again, maybe I'm being critical in an attempt to feel superior. Who knows and/or who cares I guess.
[After talking on the books with good story but not good writing, and the ones with good writing but not good story] "Read sometimes for the story, Bobby. Don't be like the book-snobs who won't do that. Read sometimes for the words---the language. Don't be like the play-it-safers that won't do that. But when you find a book that has both a good story and good words, treasure that book."
The Crying of Lot 49 is one of my favorite examples of a book that tells a story about basically nothing, yet happens to be an absolute marvel to absorb.
It has nothing to do with feeling superior and simply reveling in masterful use of language. Does it make one feel superior to watch a world class athlete perform? Reading Pynchon or DFWallace is a pretty similar emotional experience, in my book. ๐
