Friday, February 08, 2013

My Year of Books: Anna Karenina Pt. 1

So, I've given 'Notes from the Underground' to my bedstand to look after, so my handbag now nurtures Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy.

Generally, I've found Anna Karenina a thoroughly enjoyable read, although that was until she met Vronsky, I know exactly how she felt in that moment, I've felt it many a time and it blows your mind and makes you question everything. and I mean everything....therefore I can completely sympathise with her situation but also, I have a sensible side that wouldn't risk what I have to lose for a one off, but I guess the point is that she has very little too lose, as far as she is concerned...

I'm currently 200 pages in and shall report back once I'm nearing the end, but so good, so far. Minus the day I lost to Tolstoy describing Levin's farm for 3 chapters...

Tuesday, February 05, 2013

My Year of Books: Notes from the Underground

I've started to read Notes from the Underground by Fyodor Dostoyevsky, it is basically a novel about someone who has been isolated from humanity for an extended period of time.

I really like Dostoyevsky's style of writing, but after 2 weeks of reading this particular piece on the tube, it's difficult; the writings are rambled, confusing and long. I've chosen for this to be my bed reading, as it is a little too complex for a 10-15 minute trip along a busy track.

I feel about this book, as I did about 100 Years of Solitude by Gabriel Gael Marquez, it's a beautiful book but needs care and consideration when reading. They both almost need reflection time, to ponder of the greater message...these are not books for public transport, they are books for tranquil holidays of reflection...