Why are you reading the classics?That is a pretty big question, and I could probably ramble on with random thoughts for paragraphs and paragraphs. For the sake of organizing my thoughts and so you can muddle some coherency out of them, I am just going to make a list.
1. I like the challenge. I read a wide variety of genres, and while I definitely like to read lighter books as well, I really enjoy sinking my teeth into a big, complex, meaty novel. I like the challenge of understanding different time periods and paradigms during those time periods (as wel as different styles of writing -- namely, those that are extremely wordy). I also enjoy the complex issues often raised by classics.
2. Sort of hand in hand with my first reason, I like the fact that classics apply and affect many different people. Like my Quotables post last week, which features Italo Calvino's statement that a classic never finishes saying what it has to say, I love that generations of people can find meaning in these characters and situations. Even though people's interpretations and experiences vary, I love the connection that comes from having read the same book, not only with thousands and millions of people living today but also with those who have been dead for decades.
3. I've always liked "old" things. I like learning about earlier times, but definitely in the context of fiction for the most part. I like collecting stories.
For some reason, when I started out this post, I thought there would be quite a few more reasons on this list, but I think that actually covers it. Why do you read the classics?
Enjoyed your answer. I read the classics for many of the same reasons. They are challenging, but they are worth the effort.
ReplyDeleteCynthia
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Thanks. I agree -- I think the challenge makes them more rewarding in many cases.
DeleteNice thoughts. I like classics because they make me feel smart. ;) There's a eloquence in them that is nearly impossible to find in more modern books.
ReplyDeleteSome classics make me feel smart, and some make me feel like an idiot, haha. I really love the quality of the writing, too -- I feel like maybe people were more patient back then, and took more time to really craft a good book.
DeleteI definitely agree about the challenge aspect of reading the classics. Over the summer I find it nigh on impossible to read a meaty classic, because the shop's always heaving and at closing time I just want to go home and relax with some easy reading or trashy telly. But by the time autumn rolls around I'm starting to feel like a kid who's been eating nothing but sweets for two months - I'm desperate for something hearty and, er, nutritious. (Okay, that analogy just got a bit weird, but you know what I mean!) By this point in the year I've got a stash of classics, literary fiction and non-fiction to read, and I can leap in headfirst and enjoy every second! :D
ReplyDeleteI love your description of feeling like you've only had sweets for two months -- that is exactly how I feel if I haven't read a classic or at least something pretty literary in a long time. And autumn does seem like the best time to dive in to those heavier reads.
DeleteI love your reason number 2, about how classics still resonate with us and how we all take away different things and different interpretations.
ReplyDeleteThe classics are definitely still awesome.
Thanks! I think something about this time of year makes me want to read them more -- slowing down with the fall or something. I love them.
DeleteI just posted my reasons for reading the classics today, and one of the things I listed was that I love the characters found in these books. They are so memorable!
ReplyDeleteThat is so true. I love the way characters in classics seem to more or less live on in the minds of everyone who has read them or even heard of them.
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