It is funny I think how the reading helps the mind focus. I think it is because it takes a little more time and effort so makes the mind slow and think a bit.
I am glad that you enjoyed it. I know that I write across many areas so not all (or many) are suited or everyone.
Indeed, my father was a highly intelligent man, also someone who read a massive amount great books and believed in increases focus, vocabulary and thus widening one's scope of understanding. I enjoy most of your most a great deal and your input is surely appreciated, it helps the "learning from each other" process.