When you were little and read a story, did you see the story, or the writing?

When I read a book, and I was very well read, from a rather young age. I sailed away into the world the writer was inviting me to. I was part of the gang in ‘Secret Seven’. I could see their faces, their smirks and understand their general character. I sailed ships, ran on beaches and played with dragons. All in beautiful technicolor.

When I got older I went through a Stephen King phase. He has such a good way of using words to create noises, or atmosphere. He can also like any good writer create believable characters.

My mother was exceptionally good at grammar and spelling. I never was, I was too lost in the imagery of the moment.

My question therefore is, do you see the words or the images that are being painted before you.? Do you see the grammar or the noises, sounds and colors of words? If so I wonder why we are so different?

If you have a favorite passage from a book, or poem and would like to share, I would love to see it!