i can do some amount of reading, but when it comes to reading something like Das Kapital, my eyes glaze over
i can't be the only one who has this struggle. besides developing the practice of reading widely and deeply, what are some ways we can help ourselves to become the critical thinkers necessary for revolutionary work?
we can talk about tips/experiences like:
- getting your vision checked
- an adhd diagnosis
- reward structures
- joining book clubs
- note taking strategies
- etc
in essence, is there theory for "reading theory"?
Old theory can be tough, because it is old. Das Kapital was published in 1867. Lenin's work is from the early 20th century. Both were originally written in foreign (to US based readers) languages. These factors conspire with the already somewhat dry nature of the material to make them tough for modern readers.
In addition to the strategies mentioned by other users here, I suggest seeking out more modern theory. Murray Bookchin is a good example if you're interested in anarchism, Michael Parenti is more of a traditional marxist (or so I'm told, I haven't read his work personally)
There are others as well, if you look for writers in that vein, you'll surely find them.