While Willa Cather may have written a somewhat slow moving text, she was able to capture certain characteristics and mannerisms found in lazy midwestern towns (by no means am I implying that the individuals were lazy, but if you were raised in the midwest, as I was, you aren't running at break-neck speeds...slow and steady wins the race, remember!) in her novel My Antonia! As I slowly read this novel, the characters, buildings, and relationships also gradually rose from the pages. I particularly loved the way she captured the speech patterns of new English speakers, such as Antonia. As I read her words, I was reminded of a good friend of mine who served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Part of her duties as a missionary was to study the English language every day. Hearing the way she constructed sentences gave me an appreciation for my language as well as hers. I hear her voice echoed in Antonia's speech.
Jim Burden reminded me a bit of Laurie from Louisa May Alcott's Little Women. Kind of a lazy and rich boy who fancied those "beneath" him for whatever reason, pursued and yet failed to make anything more than a game of the pursuit. Abandoning everyone in the pursuit of his education and the seeming lackluster marriage he later made further demonstrates that he has no true passion for anything. He only pursued education as the encouragement of his idealized Antonia, only to leave her to ruin. The avoidance of her in the ensuing years shows his shame, and yet, as a survivor, Antonia still comes out on top with a hardworking husband and passel of children. She comes out conqueror through her squalor whereas Jim may have success and an easy life, but no real love in any aspect of his life.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009
I Know The Stranger
Right away I knew I was going to enjoy this book. There is a quality to Albert Camus' writing that immediately sucked me in even through an apathetic character. Although I can't agree with Camus' philosophy, I can respect it. Sometimes things just happen because they happen. I've spent too much of my life trying to explain why things happen. I have no more control over it if I can explain the cause or the effect of any action or occurrance. It remains the same. Being able to finally come to that acceptance of "what will happen will happen" helps alleviate stress in one's life, yet it can be very disturbing and frustrating to others involved in that life. I can't say that I can accept someone murdering another being "because it happened" but the concept is true: with or without remorse does not change what happened. However, I do believe that it can change a person to be more aware and concerned for others. We, as humans, can take responsibility for our actions while still allowing emotion and intellectual thought to co-exist.
Alice, Alice
Not that I ever enjoy a movie as much as a book, but this is definitely one I wish I'd never seen. I wish I had my own imagination (uninfluenced) to create this world of Wonderland as I read. Word play, interesting images/characters, and just plain purposeless fun! Just like a good children's story should be. I appreciate morals and lessons being illustrated in my reading, but I don't have to have it all the time. For kids just learning the love of reading, there is great value to the entertainment value; especially when someone can create such interesting assortment of characters who are just doing, well, whatever they want.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
A Break from the Trend
I've been consumed with finding appropriate titles for the Book Club and steering away from the "Best Sellers" list. I chose to take a little detour and try out something a little newer. I have to say that my choice was well made as I enjoyed the concepts and drama played out in Jodi Picoult's My Sister's Keeper.
There's been a recent movie made from this book and I hear it is a tear jerker. I've also heard that it, sadly, doesn't follow the ending of the book. I have yet to see it, so it remains a mystery.
I enjoyed this book up until the last chapter. I appreciate what happened and the chance that the ending turned out the way it did. However, in my mind, that last chapter just didn't even need to be written. Or, at least, it didn't need to be written from that particular character's vantage point. I thought there should have been one life that hung in the balance and wondering what would have happened there would have made the book ten times more appealing.
As for current dealings with the choices made available by modern technology, it was great to get my hands and head into such a topic as "designer" babies or babies with a purpose superior to merely an addition to the family. It was thought provoking to measure and weigh the "rights" and "wrongs" of each choice.
Great book. Recommend to others and possible permissible on a reading list as it has great discussion entwined with the reading of this novel.
There's been a recent movie made from this book and I hear it is a tear jerker. I've also heard that it, sadly, doesn't follow the ending of the book. I have yet to see it, so it remains a mystery.
I enjoyed this book up until the last chapter. I appreciate what happened and the chance that the ending turned out the way it did. However, in my mind, that last chapter just didn't even need to be written. Or, at least, it didn't need to be written from that particular character's vantage point. I thought there should have been one life that hung in the balance and wondering what would have happened there would have made the book ten times more appealing.
As for current dealings with the choices made available by modern technology, it was great to get my hands and head into such a topic as "designer" babies or babies with a purpose superior to merely an addition to the family. It was thought provoking to measure and weigh the "rights" and "wrongs" of each choice.
Great book. Recommend to others and possible permissible on a reading list as it has great discussion entwined with the reading of this novel.
Language and Dialect
I've mentioned before my desire to be able to read books in the native language/vernacular. Zora Neale Hurston satisfies this as well as a desire to read good African-American literature in her book Their Eyes Were Watching God. I sorted through a few different books to find this title and am really pleased with this work.
Not only did I enjoy "hearing" the speech of these characters, but I was fully enthralled with what would happen next. I found myself hanging at each page turn to discover what would happen to Tea Cake. Janie seems like a real person to me and the development of her own maturity and satisfaction with life and coping with the "lemons" she is given seems true to life.
I also appreciate the fact that an author took a chance on her audience and allowed a terrible and tragic thing to happen without trying to answer all the "what then's" that arise in a reader's mind. A lot of the wonderment is what makes the book a success. If a writer gives all the answers, it can distort the "reality" a reader has created through her own interpretation of the book.
Although there were some instances of what could be termed "indecent" as we read portions of Janie's love life, it doesn't come across as vulgar or titillating. It's kind of a fact and an aspect of the book that doesn't seem wrong or out of step. In this case, it has landed itself on the list for book selection option for February.
Not only did I enjoy "hearing" the speech of these characters, but I was fully enthralled with what would happen next. I found myself hanging at each page turn to discover what would happen to Tea Cake. Janie seems like a real person to me and the development of her own maturity and satisfaction with life and coping with the "lemons" she is given seems true to life.
I also appreciate the fact that an author took a chance on her audience and allowed a terrible and tragic thing to happen without trying to answer all the "what then's" that arise in a reader's mind. A lot of the wonderment is what makes the book a success. If a writer gives all the answers, it can distort the "reality" a reader has created through her own interpretation of the book.
Although there were some instances of what could be termed "indecent" as we read portions of Janie's love life, it doesn't come across as vulgar or titillating. It's kind of a fact and an aspect of the book that doesn't seem wrong or out of step. In this case, it has landed itself on the list for book selection option for February.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Copper Sun
A recommendation from my mother, a high school English teacher, Copper Sun was definitely penned for a younger audience. I have to remember that this novel is written for the "juvenile" audience; the same reason I have to excuse the writer of the Twilight series. As such, it is a good insight into what Africans and slaves experienced in the early days of this country. Although I could recommend it on this level, I did not enjoy my reading of the novel. There were portions of it that were too arbitrary in the writing. I understand that the elderly and/or experienced people in life can be seen as sages, but there were moments that I felt she broke from her writing mid-thought and then came back to it unable to complete the transitional idea. As a writer myself, I have experienced this. Kudos to her for getting past the "perfectionism" that keeps me from submitting anything for publication...ever.
I remain in the search of a good quality novel dealing with the slavery issue. I am intrigued to discover if this is a hole in literature or if I just haven't been exposed to the good writers of said genre as of yet.
I remain in the search of a good quality novel dealing with the slavery issue. I am intrigued to discover if this is a hole in literature or if I just haven't been exposed to the good writers of said genre as of yet.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
A Christmas Tradition
I'm not sure how many film versions exist of this classic Christmas tale, but there does seem to be a plethora of them. Probably due to this, I have never opened the text before. Although, I felt that I knew what it would contain. For the most part, I believe I was correct. However, it was easier to distinguish certain qualities as portrayed by Charles Dickens instead of the interpretations of producers and directors.
A Christmas Carol is not a surprise story. It's about the ability of man to repent and turn again to the good things of life: human interaction, joy and service, as well as the concept that there is always time to change, as long as we capitalize on the opportunity. The interesting thing I discovered was the partial hint at Dickens' displeasure with America (it has been mentioned in certain articles that Dickens at one time traveled to the United States in a effort to promote international copyright laws, an issue that has continued to plague the world in one form or another even today).
Dickens' philosophy on the redeeming value of assisting our human brothers and sisters echo the importance of Christian values in business dealings as well as familial relationships. Truly, by becoming more giving and benevolent, we can assist our fellow man in not only survival but also in success in this world.
A Christmas Carol is not a surprise story. It's about the ability of man to repent and turn again to the good things of life: human interaction, joy and service, as well as the concept that there is always time to change, as long as we capitalize on the opportunity. The interesting thing I discovered was the partial hint at Dickens' displeasure with America (it has been mentioned in certain articles that Dickens at one time traveled to the United States in a effort to promote international copyright laws, an issue that has continued to plague the world in one form or another even today).
Dickens' philosophy on the redeeming value of assisting our human brothers and sisters echo the importance of Christian values in business dealings as well as familial relationships. Truly, by becoming more giving and benevolent, we can assist our fellow man in not only survival but also in success in this world.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Third Side of an Issue
In Uncle Tom's Cabin, Harriet Beecher Stowe points out the many layers of "both sides" of the slavery issue. However, I think, thus far, that her point is that there is not a correct stance on the issue and parts must be taken for both aspects.
For instance, the "Northern" philosophy of slavery being cruel and un-Christian is correct. However, at least from Stowe's point of view, there still lingered a segregation and almost disgust of encountering the blacks. Therefore, although citing the Bible for defense, these individuals were not letting the true purpose be manifest: that of treating all humans like unto themselves. In like manner, although there were, perhaps, slave owners who treated their slaves with kindness and possibly even indulgence, they were wrong not only for keeping humans as property, but never recognizing that they were humans and equals in intellect, emotion, and potential. Thus, there is a necessity to "choose the better part" of both sides and combine them to the perfection that is necessary for true equality then or now: all human are human and should be treated as such. The Golden Rule truly applies in human rights' positions.
There continues to be work that needs to be accomplished as our society looks upon the issue of HUMAN rights and equality. There continues to be a pervading misconception that to promote the rights of one group (women, black, Hispanic, or whatever) while simultaneously punishing another (white, men, whatever). Only when society recognizes this will we ever truly triumph over the persecutions, punishments, and guilt of the past to build a brighter future.
Other thoughts...here
For instance, the "Northern" philosophy of slavery being cruel and un-Christian is correct. However, at least from Stowe's point of view, there still lingered a segregation and almost disgust of encountering the blacks. Therefore, although citing the Bible for defense, these individuals were not letting the true purpose be manifest: that of treating all humans like unto themselves. In like manner, although there were, perhaps, slave owners who treated their slaves with kindness and possibly even indulgence, they were wrong not only for keeping humans as property, but never recognizing that they were humans and equals in intellect, emotion, and potential. Thus, there is a necessity to "choose the better part" of both sides and combine them to the perfection that is necessary for true equality then or now: all human are human and should be treated as such. The Golden Rule truly applies in human rights' positions.
There continues to be work that needs to be accomplished as our society looks upon the issue of HUMAN rights and equality. There continues to be a pervading misconception that to promote the rights of one group (women, black, Hispanic, or whatever) while simultaneously punishing another (white, men, whatever). Only when society recognizes this will we ever truly triumph over the persecutions, punishments, and guilt of the past to build a brighter future.
Other thoughts...here
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Knowledge Gleaned
Neither take ye thought beforehand what ye shall say; but treasure up in your minds continually the words of life, and it shall be given you in the very hour that portion that shall be meted unto every man. (Doctrine and Covenants 84:85)
Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection. (Doctrine and Covenants 130:18)
Ray Bradbury probably isn't a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, yet I find several of the doctrines he holds to in his novel Fahrenheit 451 can be explained or referenced easily by latter-day revelation as given through the Prophet Joseph Smith. How can this be? Because knowledge comes from truth. Truth is unchanging and eternal.
In this world of Fahrenheit 451, there is only one way to keep the knowledge of the past. You can't keep it in material sources. It MUST become a part of you. Memory is the most important aspect of knowledge. Being able to reference something on a page may work while that page is accessible, yet, as in this terrible world of book burning, that page may not be accessible in the time it is needful.
Bradbury has an easy, conversational style of writing, which enabled the book to be read quickly. This may be the quickest read I have come across, as I checked the book out yesterday afternoon and it is already finished and written about this morning. There are good discussions within these pages. Again, I feel this is one of my preferred books and is now on the list of favorites.
Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection. (Doctrine and Covenants 130:18)
Ray Bradbury probably isn't a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, yet I find several of the doctrines he holds to in his novel Fahrenheit 451 can be explained or referenced easily by latter-day revelation as given through the Prophet Joseph Smith. How can this be? Because knowledge comes from truth. Truth is unchanging and eternal.
In this world of Fahrenheit 451, there is only one way to keep the knowledge of the past. You can't keep it in material sources. It MUST become a part of you. Memory is the most important aspect of knowledge. Being able to reference something on a page may work while that page is accessible, yet, as in this terrible world of book burning, that page may not be accessible in the time it is needful.
Bradbury has an easy, conversational style of writing, which enabled the book to be read quickly. This may be the quickest read I have come across, as I checked the book out yesterday afternoon and it is already finished and written about this morning. There are good discussions within these pages. Again, I feel this is one of my preferred books and is now on the list of favorites.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Thoughts and Government
The entire concept of government revolves around the ruling and protecting of it's citizens. However, government does not always necessarily fulfill this role. In fact, there is a constant effort for balance of "poor" government to that of "good" government. Without this, there would no longer be civil revolts, wars, and the changing of political parties and governing bodies. George Orwell's 1984 is a discourse in what can go wrong when government is allowed too much control.
There are so many ideas worthy of discussion presented in this novel. The restriction of so many things we take for "freedoms" are completely restricted and destroyed in Oceania. The arts, sciences, and ultimately, thought are destroyed through systematic purging within this culture. There isn't an improvement gained for society as "Big Brother" and the Inner Party selfishly keep those to themselves and restrict and destroy things that would make every day living more comfortable for the masses.
This is yet another title going to my list of favorites...again, not THE favorite, but one that belongs on the list from which to choose.
There are so many ideas worthy of discussion presented in this novel. The restriction of so many things we take for "freedoms" are completely restricted and destroyed in Oceania. The arts, sciences, and ultimately, thought are destroyed through systematic purging within this culture. There isn't an improvement gained for society as "Big Brother" and the Inner Party selfishly keep those to themselves and restrict and destroy things that would make every day living more comfortable for the masses.
This is yet another title going to my list of favorites...again, not THE favorite, but one that belongs on the list from which to choose.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
1984
After forcing myself to complete the reading of Capote's Breakfast at Tiffany's, I was excited to pick up something different. George Orwell's 1984 has been on my list to read since high school, believe it or not. I have finally checked it out and am amazed at how quickly it reads.
I definitely feel the color "drab"...gray, muted, colors...as I read this book. However, there is an exposure to color from the mind of Winston. I'm very curious to where this book will take me as it evokes similar feelings as the color-black and white contrast used in Gary Ross' Pleasantville. I'm already fascinated by the phrase "orthodoxy is unconsciousness." As a writer, it also completely grabbed my attention by the "destruction of words" to "narrow the range of thought." OH MY! Gripping, not for action, but due to the concepts and mental situations being set up in the first 75 pages.
I'm looking forward to this read, Orwell. I enjoyed Animal Farm back in high school, so I do not expect to be disappointed in this, my friend.
I definitely feel the color "drab"...gray, muted, colors...as I read this book. However, there is an exposure to color from the mind of Winston. I'm very curious to where this book will take me as it evokes similar feelings as the color-black and white contrast used in Gary Ross' Pleasantville. I'm already fascinated by the phrase "orthodoxy is unconsciousness." As a writer, it also completely grabbed my attention by the "destruction of words" to "narrow the range of thought." OH MY! Gripping, not for action, but due to the concepts and mental situations being set up in the first 75 pages.
I'm looking forward to this read, Orwell. I enjoyed Animal Farm back in high school, so I do not expect to be disappointed in this, my friend.
Breakfast at Tiffany's
I must admit the absolute ONLY reason I even picked up this book is because I am such a fan of Audrey Hepburn. Sadly, the book is no better than the film.
Truman Capote is probably the good writer he is touted to be. However, I lacked drawing any real value from reading his novel. Yes, I'm a bit prudish and perhaps prejudiced against a woman who lives the way Holly Golightly has chosen to do. Yes, I was taken aback by some of the conversations and terms she used. I also understand that these are part of her character and gives that "fashion" of a woman who feels confident yet fits in a bit awkwardly into society.
There's another novel by Capote that is on my reading list, but I sincerely hope for more redeeming reading than Breakfast at Tiffany's.
Truman Capote is probably the good writer he is touted to be. However, I lacked drawing any real value from reading his novel. Yes, I'm a bit prudish and perhaps prejudiced against a woman who lives the way Holly Golightly has chosen to do. Yes, I was taken aback by some of the conversations and terms she used. I also understand that these are part of her character and gives that "fashion" of a woman who feels confident yet fits in a bit awkwardly into society.
There's another novel by Capote that is on my reading list, but I sincerely hope for more redeeming reading than Breakfast at Tiffany's.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Dry, Realistic Tolstoy
Before I left on my mission, I had begun reading Tolstoy's Anna Karenina. I never finished it. During college, I read his short story/novella called The Death of Ivan Ilych. I couldn't really remember either of these works, so I just finished reading Ivan. I get the point, Tolstoy, but it was so dry and pathetic. I want to have some emotion concerning the characters I read about. I was completely apathetic towards anyone in this story. I don't think I'm apathetic towards real people in real events, so I think there is just a bit missing from this "realist" portrayal of an ordinary man dying in a rather unremarkable way.
I haven't written you off, Tolstoy...I just need to try out your greater known works. I need to become friends with Anna or War and Peace. We'll see which one grabs my attention (probably Anna, since my sister is currently reading that selection).
In the meantime, I'm trying out an author I've never read or heard anything about. His plays are on the Honor's Book List, but not his short stories. Anton Chekhov is another Russian writer and I find in his story a lot more interest and excitement as I read. Currently I am midway through Chekhov's The Story of an Unknown Man and would rather like to put it on the Book Club list. However, like I said, he's a bit more unknown and I am afraid the availability is lacking. Ah, but I will enjoy him anyway!
I haven't written you off, Tolstoy...I just need to try out your greater known works. I need to become friends with Anna or War and Peace. We'll see which one grabs my attention (probably Anna, since my sister is currently reading that selection).
In the meantime, I'm trying out an author I've never read or heard anything about. His plays are on the Honor's Book List, but not his short stories. Anton Chekhov is another Russian writer and I find in his story a lot more interest and excitement as I read. Currently I am midway through Chekhov's The Story of an Unknown Man and would rather like to put it on the Book Club list. However, like I said, he's a bit more unknown and I am afraid the availability is lacking. Ah, but I will enjoy him anyway!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Literature I've Read and Forgotten
Let's add another title to this category. I read "Man and Superman", a play by Bernard Shaw, during my college years. I have the copy on my shelf and the sticker marking the H420R that it was required for. I don't remember reading it, yet throughout the play are my highlighter marks. Obviously it wasn't very impressionable for me, or else it was during a time of speed reading several pieces simultaneously. I'm very curious to finish reading it and to gain a true opinion of the piece, but right now I need to finish Leo Tolstoy's The Death of Ivan Ilych (another book I've read and forgotten). I think, though, that I am more interested in reading "The Revolutionist's Handbook" that is attached as an appendage to the play.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
My Fair Lady vs Pygmalion
So, I grew up loving the musical My Fair Lady. However, after reading Pygmalion (the play written that My Fair Lady was produced from), I realize that the love story I enjoyed is, in fact, not the same.
Audrey Hepburn is so beautiful as Liza Doolittle and I was CERTAIN that she and Professor Higgins (played by Rex Harrison) got married in the future/post musical. Alas, the musical and the play diverge in an important aspect...and I believe there is more to the story through the play than displayed through the musical.
I truly enjoyed there being more to Liza than just falling after a man who doesn't treat her well. Sure, he's rich. Sure, she can probably pretty much exist without a thought of her interactions with Higgins, except the fact that she would SETTLE! There is no need (for man or woman) to settle. A marriage should only occur between two people who truly love each other and want to honor and respect each other and follow through. I think too often this is not the case and it ends in disappointing marriages (uh, see Madame Bovary!) and divorces.
Liza, as portrayed through the original author of George Bernard Shaw, truly has an awakening not only of her potential for financial and class distinction, but her own self worth as a woman. I much prefer Pygmalion's Liza to My Fair Lady's Liza, though I was quite infatuated with the story since I was a little girl.
Audrey Hepburn is so beautiful as Liza Doolittle and I was CERTAIN that she and Professor Higgins (played by Rex Harrison) got married in the future/post musical. Alas, the musical and the play diverge in an important aspect...and I believe there is more to the story through the play than displayed through the musical.
I truly enjoyed there being more to Liza than just falling after a man who doesn't treat her well. Sure, he's rich. Sure, she can probably pretty much exist without a thought of her interactions with Higgins, except the fact that she would SETTLE! There is no need (for man or woman) to settle. A marriage should only occur between two people who truly love each other and want to honor and respect each other and follow through. I think too often this is not the case and it ends in disappointing marriages (uh, see Madame Bovary!) and divorces.
Liza, as portrayed through the original author of George Bernard Shaw, truly has an awakening not only of her potential for financial and class distinction, but her own self worth as a woman. I much prefer Pygmalion's Liza to My Fair Lady's Liza, though I was quite infatuated with the story since I was a little girl.
Friday, October 9, 2009
An Ideal Husband
While in college, there was a film class that required several movie critiques on films that I couldn't quite make it to the International Theatre to view. So, that left me searching for these films at Blockbuster and the local library system (which had an AMAZING selection of foreign films).
I pulled into Blockbuster and searched around for a particular film, but was unable to find it. Seeing a worker sitting amongst a pile of videos, I approached her. She asked me if she could help me and I replied, "Yes, I'm looking for An Ideal Husband." "Aren't we all." she quipped back. Of course, I blushed furiously and then stammered through my explanation that it was a film of Oscar Wilde's play "An Ideal Husband."
I can't really remember a whole lot about the film, but I do remember it being witty. Reading the play gave me more opportunity to laugh and envision my own "production" of this play.
I really appreciated his descriptions for inspiration of certain individuals in the play. I am always looking for authors to promote other artists and writers in their works, and he satisfies this with his depictions (only known if you actually READ the play) of key players.
I'm glad I checked out his complete works from the library and look forward to reading much more of his works in the next coming weeks.
I pulled into Blockbuster and searched around for a particular film, but was unable to find it. Seeing a worker sitting amongst a pile of videos, I approached her. She asked me if she could help me and I replied, "Yes, I'm looking for An Ideal Husband." "Aren't we all." she quipped back. Of course, I blushed furiously and then stammered through my explanation that it was a film of Oscar Wilde's play "An Ideal Husband."
I can't really remember a whole lot about the film, but I do remember it being witty. Reading the play gave me more opportunity to laugh and envision my own "production" of this play.
I really appreciated his descriptions for inspiration of certain individuals in the play. I am always looking for authors to promote other artists and writers in their works, and he satisfies this with his depictions (only known if you actually READ the play) of key players.
I'm glad I checked out his complete works from the library and look forward to reading much more of his works in the next coming weeks.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
The Sins of the Father
If I had to summarize the drive of the story, it would be by saying something similar to what is found in Exodus 34:7 "visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children’s children, unto the third and to the fourth generation." Although I don't believe that sin is passed down generation to generation, I do believe that children tend to repeat things they see their parents' do and the repercusions of those decisions do affect the children, possibly for generations.
For instance, poverty, in many instances, continues through family lines because there is no education in how to change this. When an individual is "saved" from following the same spending patterns as the parents and gains more education and skills to move away from that situation, that child breaks the poverty pattern in their own family and moves forward improving the future of generations.
In like manner, there is a larger propensity for children born out of wedlock and to a single mother to make the same choices and give birth to their own children without a father in the home.
For Flaubert, his novel preaches the same idea: once a sin invades, the perpetuation of that sin tends to have a huge impact on the family and progeny. The choices the senior Mr. Bovary makes unknowingly ends up influencing his son as well as the son's second wife. The decisions the second wife makes influences her husband. All of these decisions affect the future of the innocent Berthe.
I understand all of these and the honesty of a novel of Realism. However, I wanted something more, some individual to look to as a true hero/heroine and there was none...they all have such devastating faults that there is no one to romanticize...which is probably Flaubert's point.
This definitely does not fall under a "pleasure" read, although it is largely about pleasure. However, it definitely brings up interesting things to ponder and makes for good discussion material. I can't say that it was a favorite book for me to read, but the more I think about it and ponder it, the better it becomes in my own eyes.
For instance, poverty, in many instances, continues through family lines because there is no education in how to change this. When an individual is "saved" from following the same spending patterns as the parents and gains more education and skills to move away from that situation, that child breaks the poverty pattern in their own family and moves forward improving the future of generations.
In like manner, there is a larger propensity for children born out of wedlock and to a single mother to make the same choices and give birth to their own children without a father in the home.
For Flaubert, his novel preaches the same idea: once a sin invades, the perpetuation of that sin tends to have a huge impact on the family and progeny. The choices the senior Mr. Bovary makes unknowingly ends up influencing his son as well as the son's second wife. The decisions the second wife makes influences her husband. All of these decisions affect the future of the innocent Berthe.
I understand all of these and the honesty of a novel of Realism. However, I wanted something more, some individual to look to as a true hero/heroine and there was none...they all have such devastating faults that there is no one to romanticize...which is probably Flaubert's point.
This definitely does not fall under a "pleasure" read, although it is largely about pleasure. However, it definitely brings up interesting things to ponder and makes for good discussion material. I can't say that it was a favorite book for me to read, but the more I think about it and ponder it, the better it becomes in my own eyes.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
En Francais Flaubert!
At least I wish my skills were still good enough to make it possible. I'm reading Gustave Flaubert's Madame Bovary. I can't say it is one of my favorites, but maybe I will like it better after I finish. Right now Madame Bovary, herself, is really bugging me. I detest selfish, self-absorbed main characters! I think I would also enjoy it more in French as I feel there is something lacking in the English translation (though, I am reading a copy using the claimed "best" translation). I think, also, there are some things going on in my personal world that contribute to an annoyance with such a character. Real life, right? There ARE some people out there that are like this...but sometimes, I think we can all show some similar characteristics and that's probably what bugs me: mine.
Monday, September 28, 2009
The Mayor of Casterbridge
I enjoy the writing style of Thomas Hardy, but I did not enjoy this novel. What a sad and terribly distorted life these people were created to lead in The Mayor of Casterbridge! I truly enjoyed Tess of the D'Ubervilles but cannot recommend this one to others. The bottom line: lies have a way of resurfacing and haunting an individual no matter the efforts to conceal. I understand that, but it is almost as if there is no mercy involved in the plot.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
The Mysteries of Udolpho
I enjoyed reading this book and, looking at the format, believe it truly follows the "definition" of a traditional novel. The version I read keep the divisions of the book in the volumes with which it was originally distributed. The first volume gives basic introductions and development of such a serene scene interrupted by the deaths of Emily's parents. However, the reader isn't exposed to much in the way of "gothic" or "ghosts" but perhaps some dark movements upon the background. Nothing frightening. However, as Radcliffe continues on in the remaining volumes, the pace of the tale increases. I found myself riveted at points and awaiting the denouement! I knew, from her biographical information, that Radcliffe was going to, at some point, reveal the way all the supernatural occurrences actually had tangible and true reasons behind them. Although the novel may have terrified readers at the time, in our current society, it may not seem nearly as horrifying as we have become somewhat desensitized due to our media. It is common place for us to hear about death, deceit, destruction, and even murder due to the media in our homes and lives. Television, movies, and even the Internet bring these images into our minds and make us less susceptible to the "fainting" and "swooning" catalogued in The Mysteries of Udolpho.
As a writer, Ann Radcliffe does a good job of blending depictions of scenery as well as development of plot. I am curious to know if she knew the end from the beginning and how she wrote as it seems very systematic and there are no open-ended questions left regarding any mystery presented in the book.
As a writer, Ann Radcliffe does a good job of blending depictions of scenery as well as development of plot. I am curious to know if she knew the end from the beginning and how she wrote as it seems very systematic and there are no open-ended questions left regarding any mystery presented in the book.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Tess of the D'Urbervilles
I could have sworn I read this book before. There are moments that I still think I have, but it really lies in the familiarity of word pattern. So, perhaps I have read something else by Thomas Hardy.
I want to put this book on the book list for the GWBC. There isn't anything explicit in it, so I think it would be fine for those with "sensitive" natures. However, there is SO much that could be discussed due to the nature of the book. The duplicity of man and this injustice women have suffered due to this! Wow. Although there has been some "softening" of women's...well, expectations/restrictions, I think there continues to be an influence in our society of guilt on the woman's part.
I've heard so many times that this dates back to early Christianity and before. However, it's sad to realize the twists to truth that have occurred due to man's (in this way both "man" and "human") manipulation of real truths. God didn't just create Eve for Adam's pleasure. She was THE final creation and holds a special place in God's eye for that reason. How, then, has woman been so oppressed throughout time?
Although I do view the necessity of certain roles, I also recognize that not everyone fits into those specified "assignments" for a variety of reasons and circumstances. I am grateful to have experienced not just the good, but have also suffered the bad in my relationships with men, so that I am MORE grateful in my recognizing of my husband's honor and protection of me. I do experience all the good now and am amazed at the guidance I received through my youth not to make a mistake in marriage to another.
Oh, Tess...I still haven't finished this novel, but my heart goes out to you! How unfair your troubles have been due to the selfishness of men!
I want to put this book on the book list for the GWBC. There isn't anything explicit in it, so I think it would be fine for those with "sensitive" natures. However, there is SO much that could be discussed due to the nature of the book. The duplicity of man and this injustice women have suffered due to this! Wow. Although there has been some "softening" of women's...well, expectations/restrictions, I think there continues to be an influence in our society of guilt on the woman's part.
I've heard so many times that this dates back to early Christianity and before. However, it's sad to realize the twists to truth that have occurred due to man's (in this way both "man" and "human") manipulation of real truths. God didn't just create Eve for Adam's pleasure. She was THE final creation and holds a special place in God's eye for that reason. How, then, has woman been so oppressed throughout time?
Although I do view the necessity of certain roles, I also recognize that not everyone fits into those specified "assignments" for a variety of reasons and circumstances. I am grateful to have experienced not just the good, but have also suffered the bad in my relationships with men, so that I am MORE grateful in my recognizing of my husband's honor and protection of me. I do experience all the good now and am amazed at the guidance I received through my youth not to make a mistake in marriage to another.
Oh, Tess...I still haven't finished this novel, but my heart goes out to you! How unfair your troubles have been due to the selfishness of men!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey
I like Jane Austen for the development of her characters. I am not disappointed in this in Northanger Abbey, either. Though a quick-read, I enjoyed the tongue-in-cheek approach to the gothic tale. I find it refreshing to have her a bit more assured of her discourse than I find in other novels she has graced us with. The tone is immensely different as the author has a strong voice and is allowed to conjecture throughout on the actions and those events leading up to certain actions in the characters.
I find it interesting that so many of my acquaintances have disliked this particular novel but perhaps it is due to misunderstanding the genre which Austen both mocks and upholds. I felt that Catherine was very believable, having grown up in small communities and from a large family. I feel that I was, at once time, just as unaware of the social maneuvering one encounters in the social realm. I have been persuaded to make judgments of my surroundings and encounters based on the literature in which I have immersed myself. Who am I to deny wanting to find my own version of Rhett Butler (although, he was somewhat of a jerk, too...thank goodness I found a different version of man in my own husband!) or Mr. Knightly? In like manner, Catherine finds herself disposed to finding certain mysterious and intriguing possibilities in her surroundings during her stay in the Abbey.
Believable characters with a subtle agenda is why I feel Jane Austen has captivated such an audience over such a lengthy period of time. Northanger Abbey, being no lesser of a novel!
I find it interesting that so many of my acquaintances have disliked this particular novel but perhaps it is due to misunderstanding the genre which Austen both mocks and upholds. I felt that Catherine was very believable, having grown up in small communities and from a large family. I feel that I was, at once time, just as unaware of the social maneuvering one encounters in the social realm. I have been persuaded to make judgments of my surroundings and encounters based on the literature in which I have immersed myself. Who am I to deny wanting to find my own version of Rhett Butler (although, he was somewhat of a jerk, too...thank goodness I found a different version of man in my own husband!) or Mr. Knightly? In like manner, Catherine finds herself disposed to finding certain mysterious and intriguing possibilities in her surroundings during her stay in the Abbey.
Believable characters with a subtle agenda is why I feel Jane Austen has captivated such an audience over such a lengthy period of time. Northanger Abbey, being no lesser of a novel!
Monday, September 14, 2009
Weekly Book Stock-up
Tomorrow is our weekly stop at the library to replenish our supply of books. I look forward to this day every week and love that my whole family gets to go on this excursion.
I do have to put my foot down. Eric is bent on supplying me with so much other reading that I haven't even picked up Atlas Shrugged in over a week! What's with that? I really want to finish this book and am getting so anxious to find out the resolutions the characters will have to make and the sacrifices that come with those decisions! So, tomorrow, there will be no "supplementary readings" picked up for me. With a book over 1000 pages, I need to just sit down and read it.
So, hopefully in the next few weeks, I will have more to say about my "favorite" book...since it is currently leading on any list I may have.
Oh, and I didn't particularly care for Avi's Something Upstairs. It was very predictable and was too quick of a read to have any anticipation of the plot. On the other hand, I did enjoy Winnie's War by Jenny Moss. I think, as an author, I'd probably have something similar to give the world: a little history between the made-up parts.
I do have to put my foot down. Eric is bent on supplying me with so much other reading that I haven't even picked up Atlas Shrugged in over a week! What's with that? I really want to finish this book and am getting so anxious to find out the resolutions the characters will have to make and the sacrifices that come with those decisions! So, tomorrow, there will be no "supplementary readings" picked up for me. With a book over 1000 pages, I need to just sit down and read it.
So, hopefully in the next few weeks, I will have more to say about my "favorite" book...since it is currently leading on any list I may have.
Oh, and I didn't particularly care for Avi's Something Upstairs. It was very predictable and was too quick of a read to have any anticipation of the plot. On the other hand, I did enjoy Winnie's War by Jenny Moss. I think, as an author, I'd probably have something similar to give the world: a little history between the made-up parts.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Juvenile Literature
In between "bigger" reads, I am supplementing with books from the juvenile section at the library. I came home with three Tuesday and have read two of them.
Weasel by Cynthia DeFelice is a story of a boy who faces some terrible encounters with a killer. He is haunted by his decision to let this man live and it wracks his conscience that he "could have" done more. This feeling is very human and every individual seems to experience this type of dilemma at some point in their life. He begins to fixate on an outcome he believes will make all the horrors go away, yet when the same outcome happens by another force, he realizes that life has a way of going on no matter the turmoil of any person. I enjoyed her take on the language of the time period and the essential essence of the plot, but it did not fulfill any other satisfaction within me.
The other book I have completed this week is Eva Wiseman's Puppet. The terrible trial of innocent Jews is pushed forward as a young Jewish boy is forced to testify that several Jewish men are responsible for the death of a Christian servant girl. I respect Wiseman's writing as she focused on a historical fiction story of such a tragedy. I found myself hurrying through the book to discover if yet another travesty had befallen such a persecuted religious group. I had never heard of this trial or the implications of it. However, I feel enlightened to more of the ever present hate that tends to follow this poor group of God-fearers. It amazes me at the way these people have triumphed over such great odds through the years.
I look forward to the reading of Winnie's War by Jenny Moss, especially as I am an aspiring author and this is her first book.
Weasel by Cynthia DeFelice is a story of a boy who faces some terrible encounters with a killer. He is haunted by his decision to let this man live and it wracks his conscience that he "could have" done more. This feeling is very human and every individual seems to experience this type of dilemma at some point in their life. He begins to fixate on an outcome he believes will make all the horrors go away, yet when the same outcome happens by another force, he realizes that life has a way of going on no matter the turmoil of any person. I enjoyed her take on the language of the time period and the essential essence of the plot, but it did not fulfill any other satisfaction within me.
The other book I have completed this week is Eva Wiseman's Puppet. The terrible trial of innocent Jews is pushed forward as a young Jewish boy is forced to testify that several Jewish men are responsible for the death of a Christian servant girl. I respect Wiseman's writing as she focused on a historical fiction story of such a tragedy. I found myself hurrying through the book to discover if yet another travesty had befallen such a persecuted religious group. I had never heard of this trial or the implications of it. However, I feel enlightened to more of the ever present hate that tends to follow this poor group of God-fearers. It amazes me at the way these people have triumphed over such great odds through the years.
I look forward to the reading of Winnie's War by Jenny Moss, especially as I am an aspiring author and this is her first book.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
On the Favorites List
Upon realizing my major, many people then ask me the golden question: "What, then, is your favorite book?" I never have an answer. I've read many books and have liked them. However, I don't know how to classify THE favorite with so many different styles and genres available.
However, I am beginning to recognize that perhaps I should have a list of books that could be contenders for THE favorite. Dracula is on that list.
I just finished this great book this evening. I've had many epiphanies and have been excited to turn the next page and discover what perils the characters find themselves in and especially as all things are interrelated. I found myself feeling a bit of triumph at the last. Good wins over evil! However, it isn't in an over exorbitant manner. The end comes as a plausible and realistic culmination of events.
I also find each character interesting as well as the relationships between each person. I also enjoy a writer who, though at times portrays a woman to be softer and more prone to "shock", it feels as it is done gallantly. Mina is a very capable woman and is largely tied to the triumph in the defeat of her predator-master.
However, I am beginning to recognize that perhaps I should have a list of books that could be contenders for THE favorite. Dracula is on that list.
I just finished this great book this evening. I've had many epiphanies and have been excited to turn the next page and discover what perils the characters find themselves in and especially as all things are interrelated. I found myself feeling a bit of triumph at the last. Good wins over evil! However, it isn't in an over exorbitant manner. The end comes as a plausible and realistic culmination of events.
I also find each character interesting as well as the relationships between each person. I also enjoy a writer who, though at times portrays a woman to be softer and more prone to "shock", it feels as it is done gallantly. Mina is a very capable woman and is largely tied to the triumph in the defeat of her predator-master.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Dracula
In an effort to provide real information for members of my book club, I am reading the selections available for next month's reading. I'm at the half-way point with Dracula by Bram Stoker. I am pleasantly surprised with this novel. I admit, I picked it up thinking that I would have to just plug along until I finished it. However, it has been a page-turner for me. I love the way Stoker writes and entwines myth and faith. I have had many epiphanies through my reading and am excited to see what develops as I continue.
In comparison with Frankenstein, I feel that this novel is better able to mix reality with the implied science of medicine. Frankenstein had a lot of missing information because it couldn't make sense whereas Dracula takes you purposefully through the study of the human brain to acknowledge certain issues.
In comparison with Frankenstein, I feel that this novel is better able to mix reality with the implied science of medicine. Frankenstein had a lot of missing information because it couldn't make sense whereas Dracula takes you purposefully through the study of the human brain to acknowledge certain issues.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Frankenstein Again
In my educational pursuits, I have been required to read certain selections multiple times. These titles are Shakespeare's Hamlet, Conrad's Heart of Darkness, and Shelley's Frankenstein. However, I recognize that with the amount of literature piled before me each semester, I rarely was able to enjoy any of my readings.
I have selected Frankenstein as an option for next month's reading in the Great Work's Book Club. In this, I am trying to read ahead so I can spend time that month working on finding the background information to supply to club members to make the readings more enjoyable and understandable. Thus, for a third time, I have read this title. I must admit, this is the first time I feel like I have actually delved into the reading. I feel more accountable as he "leader" than I did as the "student." Therefore, I am more studiously applying myself to the reading and understanding of each text.
Through this reading, I noted the frequency that I picked up a dictionary to ensure my contextual reading of certain terms was correct. I think using a dictionary is a great tool to truly understand what an author is conveying. Aside from that, it is also a better way to solidify new words into my own vocabulary: not that I will typically use these words, but I can comprehend them better the next time I hear or read them.
I think my favorite aspect of this novel is stated by the monster himself. He is contemplating fire when he states, "How strange, I thought, that the same cause should produce such opposite effects!" To me, this is the drive of the tale. Frankenstein sought to create life for the joy of man, yet it brought sorrow and destruction, even death. The daemon also sought to procure similar travesty upon his creator and yet, when death finally assaults his master, he is despondent and retracts his previous determinations. His decision to punish his master created a punishment for himself. In this, there is caution to our true purposes and the consequences that we then no longer control.
I have selected Frankenstein as an option for next month's reading in the Great Work's Book Club. In this, I am trying to read ahead so I can spend time that month working on finding the background information to supply to club members to make the readings more enjoyable and understandable. Thus, for a third time, I have read this title. I must admit, this is the first time I feel like I have actually delved into the reading. I feel more accountable as he "leader" than I did as the "student." Therefore, I am more studiously applying myself to the reading and understanding of each text.
Through this reading, I noted the frequency that I picked up a dictionary to ensure my contextual reading of certain terms was correct. I think using a dictionary is a great tool to truly understand what an author is conveying. Aside from that, it is also a better way to solidify new words into my own vocabulary: not that I will typically use these words, but I can comprehend them better the next time I hear or read them.
I think my favorite aspect of this novel is stated by the monster himself. He is contemplating fire when he states, "How strange, I thought, that the same cause should produce such opposite effects!" To me, this is the drive of the tale. Frankenstein sought to create life for the joy of man, yet it brought sorrow and destruction, even death. The daemon also sought to procure similar travesty upon his creator and yet, when death finally assaults his master, he is despondent and retracts his previous determinations. His decision to punish his master created a punishment for himself. In this, there is caution to our true purposes and the consequences that we then no longer control.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Eric's Selection
Eric has helped me a lot with piling through book titles for my book club. As we have done this, we have shared titles of books we remember or enjoyed. It's been fun. I love that I have a husband who likes to read (although, he says he just likes the kid-type books. ie: Lemony Snicket series).
We went to the library yesterday (amazingly enough, we have actually worked a weekly visit for about a month now!) and brought home 15 new titles. Yes, most of them are for Emily and Gianna, but we also have a few for ourselves. Eric is continuing the Lemony Snicket series while I brought home a couple of gothic tales (Frankenstein and Dracula) in hopes that we will read them for book club next month. Eric also chose a title for me.
Apparently when he was in school, there was some kind of competition with literature. He knows several books because of this. Thus, his choice in having me read Lloyd Alexander's The Remarkable Journey of Prince Jen. I'm over half-way finished already, but it has been an enjoyable (though predictable) read. It's funny and reminds me a little of my Japanese literature course at BYU. I said, "a little".
We went to the library yesterday (amazingly enough, we have actually worked a weekly visit for about a month now!) and brought home 15 new titles. Yes, most of them are for Emily and Gianna, but we also have a few for ourselves. Eric is continuing the Lemony Snicket series while I brought home a couple of gothic tales (Frankenstein and Dracula) in hopes that we will read them for book club next month. Eric also chose a title for me.
Apparently when he was in school, there was some kind of competition with literature. He knows several books because of this. Thus, his choice in having me read Lloyd Alexander's The Remarkable Journey of Prince Jen. I'm over half-way finished already, but it has been an enjoyable (though predictable) read. It's funny and reminds me a little of my Japanese literature course at BYU. I said, "a little".
Monday, August 24, 2009
Reading of Today in Past Writings
I am still plugging away at Atlas Shrugged. I have to say that I do get joy out of this reading! Ayn Rand is a great writer and has some great talent. I find myself chuckling as I read her book. I laugh because there is such similar talk happening in my world right now. Oh, if people only actually knew history and read literature!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Persuasion at It's Best
Reading a book is very much like meeting a new friend. At first, things are a little awkward and I get confused with the relationships between people. After a little persuasion I become familiar with those characters. Then, as I continue reading, I discover great joy at being involved with those in the narration. They come alive and their lives are so interesting to observe.
Truly, it is a good thing that they are not literal friends, as I devour the book too quickly and am often left wanting more. I want to know what will happen next, but, alas, the characters in the book are prohibited from moving forward from those last pages: forever frozen in a particular circumstance and pose.
The first selection for the book club is Jane Austen's Persuasion. I must admit, I am devouring it at an alarming rate. I will be able to read it four times over before we discuss it if I read it this quickly each time! Actually, I will be using the available time to do some research into critical essay and thought on this particular title as well as on the author.
I find Austen interesting in her depictions of life in England in the early 1800's. The life of the gentry, as she portrays, seems completely filled with spending their hours in socializing and not much more than that. I cannot imagine having two hours together without a thing to do but associate with friends in this town or another. I know I am being a bit liberal with my interpretation, but in the same moment, not too liberal.
It remains that I do enjoy the romance and writings of Jane Austen. She is an excellent writer who is able to create complete and believable characters without overdeveloping or leading the reader to believe ill and evil exists where it is not.
Truly, it is a good thing that they are not literal friends, as I devour the book too quickly and am often left wanting more. I want to know what will happen next, but, alas, the characters in the book are prohibited from moving forward from those last pages: forever frozen in a particular circumstance and pose.
The first selection for the book club is Jane Austen's Persuasion. I must admit, I am devouring it at an alarming rate. I will be able to read it four times over before we discuss it if I read it this quickly each time! Actually, I will be using the available time to do some research into critical essay and thought on this particular title as well as on the author.
I find Austen interesting in her depictions of life in England in the early 1800's. The life of the gentry, as she portrays, seems completely filled with spending their hours in socializing and not much more than that. I cannot imagine having two hours together without a thing to do but associate with friends in this town or another. I know I am being a bit liberal with my interpretation, but in the same moment, not too liberal.
It remains that I do enjoy the romance and writings of Jane Austen. She is an excellent writer who is able to create complete and believable characters without overdeveloping or leading the reader to believe ill and evil exists where it is not.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Waiting
I am waiting on the official first meeting of the book club I have started to get things going with that. In the meantime, I am continuing to read my choice text of Atlas Shrugged. I'm already very interested in it. You cannot read this one without asking questions. I have a list of curiosities to see if they are answered by the author or if they are just interest markers to make you wonder throughout.
I have found interesting aspects within the first 100 pages that relate directly to what is going on currently in our nation. I will be interested to discover if they really do sacrifice the accomplishments of one man "for the good of the many" and other such "equalizers".
I have found interesting aspects within the first 100 pages that relate directly to what is going on currently in our nation. I will be interested to discover if they really do sacrifice the accomplishments of one man "for the good of the many" and other such "equalizers".
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Beginnings of Atlas Shrugged
After seeing this title a few times over the past few weeks, I thought I should read it. I've never read anything from Ayn Rand. All I even know about her is from a film I watched one time at the International Cinema at Brigham Young University. I honestly can't remember much about that, either. I do remember the feelings I had while watching the film. At times I become captivated by a thought and get these butterfly feelings in my stomach. I have noticed that these feelings are typically due to me feeling some underlying need to become educated about that particular subject. However long it has taken me to follow up on that curiosity, at least it is finally being done.
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