Kim here. As usual, this post is delayed. Not only did I not have the Corrections finished by the meeting, this month has continued to be a complete roller coaster ride. Anywho, enough about me. The Corrections was yet another completely polarizing book for us. Similarly to most of the books that we have read, either readers totally adored it or abhorred it. I myself am in the former camp, but was shocked by how staunch people were about their opinion of the book. Even the strangers who saw me reading it on the train or at a cafe, had something to say about it. What is it about this novel that is so completely polarizing?
I think that our meeting addressed the issue to an extent: not the subject matter, but the format of the novel itself is rather challenging. For those that appreciate a story line instead of a psychological makeup of characters, the Corrections lacked the usual dramatic techniques. But it didn't stop there. Even for those readers who love to delve deep into a characters psyche, there seemed to be something here that was too bleak to swallow. In my opinion (biased because I loved the book), the bleakness is born out of his refusal to give the reader a storybook ending. The reality is that these people have a lot of terrible tendencies, and living the way that they are, there isn't a great chance they are going to find the happiness they are seeking. I don't think their well-being should be the reader's concern, but rather the complexity Franzen creates. It's simultaneously entertaining, frightening, and completely true to human behavior, which is not an easy feat.
So, in response to the question of what it is about this book, I think that the polarizing effect is a symptom of the depth of the writing. I have no doubt that had Franzen written a more shallow, less true to man novel people would put it down, brush it off, and carry on their day. Instead he dives in head first, and gives us a frustrating look at the real America.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Nymph
This book conjures up such rich descriptions of times and people that I just couldn't help but to add another drawing of yet another favorite character. The nymph Lalo. This is my response to "sexual, deviant characters" as posted by Jane..
Monday, September 29, 2008
Immortality, perfume, and beets...can't forget the beets!
Jane here. I'd have to agree with the Garcia hermanas, Tom Robbins manages to come up with themes that seem completely unrelated and and tie them all together in a nearly indescribable way. As I begin to tear into the last 30 pages, however, I realize more and more that, though Tommy has been shining a very bright light on the concept of immortality, the book as a whole seems to be more about the evolution of humans - sometimes even the evolution of the world. I think it was so important for him to have an "immortal" character (Alobar) so that he could depict human evolution over the past 1000 years in his robbins-esque way. Based on other books I've read of his, I've noticed that he loves to present very important, deep, insightful philosophical matters by following the lives of eccentric, nearly-magical, sexual, deviant characters. Making his books incredibly funny and entertaining yet important and slightly life changing.
As per Kimmy's comments on how he describes things - I couldn't agree more. "So out there and perfect at the same time" is exactly how I view his descriptions as well. I was cracking up when he described Alobar's finger as "water-logged" (after spending the night inside Kudra) or Alma "hiccuping the mushroom scent of his spurt." (May I add that this is the 2nd time we've read of a man's biznass smelling of mushrooms -- think Greek couple on a boat) I can't help but wonder if he has to think long and hard before coming up with such brilliance, or if these ideas just come pouring out of him one after the other.
Anyway, reading Tom Robbins always feels like a breath of fresh air for me, and I'll be sad when the book is over. Can't wait to talk about it over wine though!
As per Kimmy's comments on how he describes things - I couldn't agree more. "So out there and perfect at the same time" is exactly how I view his descriptions as well. I was cracking up when he described Alobar's finger as "water-logged" (after spending the night inside Kudra) or Alma "hiccuping the mushroom scent of his spurt." (May I add that this is the 2nd time we've read of a man's biznass smelling of mushrooms -- think Greek couple on a boat) I can't help but wonder if he has to think long and hard before coming up with such brilliance, or if these ideas just come pouring out of him one after the other.
Anyway, reading Tom Robbins always feels like a breath of fresh air for me, and I'll be sad when the book is over. Can't wait to talk about it over wine though!
Questions/Comments
I'm assuming the last person that commented was my darling Christiny Beanie. I couldn't agree more with your post. The central question of the book is definitely immortaliy, both the implications and downsides of the legendary ideal. The way that Robbins seeks it is wholly in line with the complexity of the idea: circularly, jaggedly, and everything but headon, which I don't believe actually exists. That is to say that he creates images and discussions to conjur up a sensation that deceives us into feeling like we've gotten straight to the heart of the matter. I don't believe this is possible, nor is his deception a negative thing. It is simply the most real the topic can feel.
I also am really enjoying his mismatching of adjectives and nouns that somehow is perfectly descriptive. Sexual images are paired with ugly and mundane words like mud and mushrooms. This seems to take away from the glamour of sex and bring it back to its place in daily life. I would love to hear other people's reactions to his descriptions. They just seems so out there and perfect at the same time.
I also am really enjoying his mismatching of adjectives and nouns that somehow is perfectly descriptive. Sexual images are paired with ugly and mundane words like mud and mushrooms. This seems to take away from the glamour of sex and bring it back to its place in daily life. I would love to hear other people's reactions to his descriptions. They just seems so out there and perfect at the same time.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
two pages left
The easiest question is "What are you reading?" The hardest question is "Whats it about?" Maybe Im just not good at explaining a plot but people just nod their heads politely and the conversation ends. Maybe because its just plain HARD to talk like Tom Robbins. Conveying his ideas are like describing what love is. I describe that the book deals with the real idea of immortality and how to achieve it and also... perfume... that links three very different parties together. Thats not really the plot. Its just the simplest way I can put it but you can't get into Robbins' head until you open up the book for yourself.
Speaking of which, what a NUT. Don't get me wrong, I love nutcases, especially genius ones.
Reading this book, I am more sucked into the authors head than I am in the storyline. I can compare him to Mark Ryden in a way; you can paint a pretty picture but I am still sitting here wondering what on earth it all means.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Wake me up before you go-go!
I would first like to comment on how well the last meeting went. Not only did we talk about the book (wow!), but our discussion really illuminated aspects of Cloudstreet that I was struggling with. As always, having people to bounce ideas off of really helps, especially when dealing with concepts that I am having a hard time even putting into words.
One of the many ideas that had a hard time making it from my mind to my mouth was narrator or point of view. In a way, it seemed like the narrator was biased and had an opinion of all the characters. On the other hand, the narrator also seemed omnipresent. I'm not trying to say that this is an outrageous way for an author to write a novel, but there is something about the voice in Cloudstreet that seems distinct in the sense that the narrator is himself a character in the story. The discussion of the narrator brought several things to light and possibilities that hadn't even crossed my mind.
The other aspect of the novel I struggled greatly with was the simple difference between an Australian style (to be honest, I'm not sure if Winton or Cloudstreet are true representatives of an Aussie literary style. Cam?) and what I can only call American writing, although I am uncomfortable putting everything written in the U.S. into one category. Some of the differences I noticed included the lack of quotation marks, gratuitous sex scenes, and, of course, the lingo. Those were definitely the biggest hinderences for me, but of the three the quotation marks, or lack thereof, were the most difficult for me to deal with. The lingo seemed tough at first, but I was able to decipher certain terms as I worked my way through the book. For some reason, it was not quite being sure when people were speaking that tripped me up a couple of times. In some ways, though, the lack of quotes almost turns the novel from being actual action into something being replayed in someone's mind, which the author may have intended.
Well moving forward, I can't wait to start Jitterbug Perfume. It seems like one of those books that everyone has read and loved and I can't wait to join the club. I know that several people in Stacks have read it, so feel free to jot down some notes or tips. Also, feel free to write reviews.
One of the many ideas that had a hard time making it from my mind to my mouth was narrator or point of view. In a way, it seemed like the narrator was biased and had an opinion of all the characters. On the other hand, the narrator also seemed omnipresent. I'm not trying to say that this is an outrageous way for an author to write a novel, but there is something about the voice in Cloudstreet that seems distinct in the sense that the narrator is himself a character in the story. The discussion of the narrator brought several things to light and possibilities that hadn't even crossed my mind.
The other aspect of the novel I struggled greatly with was the simple difference between an Australian style (to be honest, I'm not sure if Winton or Cloudstreet are true representatives of an Aussie literary style. Cam?) and what I can only call American writing, although I am uncomfortable putting everything written in the U.S. into one category. Some of the differences I noticed included the lack of quotation marks, gratuitous sex scenes, and, of course, the lingo. Those were definitely the biggest hinderences for me, but of the three the quotation marks, or lack thereof, were the most difficult for me to deal with. The lingo seemed tough at first, but I was able to decipher certain terms as I worked my way through the book. For some reason, it was not quite being sure when people were speaking that tripped me up a couple of times. In some ways, though, the lack of quotes almost turns the novel from being actual action into something being replayed in someone's mind, which the author may have intended.
Well moving forward, I can't wait to start Jitterbug Perfume. It seems like one of those books that everyone has read and loved and I can't wait to join the club. I know that several people in Stacks have read it, so feel free to jot down some notes or tips. Also, feel free to write reviews.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Fair Dinkum
G'day girls.
This months book pick was my suggestion and I would love to hear what people think so far. Reading it for the second time, I am coming across so many slang Aussie terms that I wanted to make a big list with a definition column but decided against it, as everyone learns selectively when it comes to new books. An odd phrase I've come across the most is fair dinkum, which I looked up to mean "something is truthful. Fair share of work, truth, or honesty" Try to throw into a conversation today.
Another point I wanted to point out that with this book as opposed to the American classics we have been reading is the lack of quotation marks. Without these important punctuations, it is not certain if a character is speaker their dialogue or just thinking it. This creates a bit of surrealism to the story and adds a dreamy tone although some events can be quite violent.
I have quite slew of things to talk about regarding Fish. But I will read a bit more before I jump into that subject...
Christine
This months book pick was my suggestion and I would love to hear what people think so far. Reading it for the second time, I am coming across so many slang Aussie terms that I wanted to make a big list with a definition column but decided against it, as everyone learns selectively when it comes to new books. An odd phrase I've come across the most is fair dinkum, which I looked up to mean "something is truthful. Fair share of work, truth, or honesty" Try to throw into a conversation today.
Another point I wanted to point out that with this book as opposed to the American classics we have been reading is the lack of quotation marks. Without these important punctuations, it is not certain if a character is speaker their dialogue or just thinking it. This creates a bit of surrealism to the story and adds a dreamy tone although some events can be quite violent.
I have quite slew of things to talk about regarding Fish. But I will read a bit more before I jump into that subject...
Christine
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Back on Track...hopefully
So the last month has been very challenging, but, on the bright side, I have had loads of time to read. I am hoping now to get back on track with Book Club and not only be prepared for the next meeting but also keep up with the blog. Obviously, our discussions are not only clarifying, but also very necessary in this time of endless hospital talk. I don't know if I can handle learning anymore acronyms, let alone learning how to work all of the equipment in Kevin's room.
I, unfortunately, wasn't able to attend the meeting that Jane so nicely had at her home last night. I snuck in around 10:30, just in time to grab a couple glasses of wine. So far, I have only heard a few opinions about 3 Cups, but the verdict so far is very informative, but less of a pleasure read than some of our past books. I think that is just the difference between fiction and non-fiction. I definitely found Greg Mortensen's tale very inspiring, especially for someone who is completely uncertain about what they would like to do. It was a lot of information, though, and I had to push myself through some parts. As a side note, the co-author, David Oliver Relin, apparently lives in Portland and I saw a car Friday night with a license plate that said "3 Cups T". I'm pretty sure it was him, so, needless to say, I have had an amazing brush with near-celebrity.
The next book on our incredible journey is Cloudstreet by: Tim Winton. I had never heard of this book, but have had several conversations with Christine and Cam about it. In Australia, the book is a modern classic and Cam cannot wait for us to take on the deep, Outback dialect. (That's the region, not the restaurant ladies.) He said to prepare ourselves for some complicated translating, but that the book is one of his absolute favorites.
Here are some reviews of Cloudstreet:
'I found that it took a while to get into this book. Once I got my head round the use of Australian colloquialisms and strange names (Fish, Quick) I thought this was an excellent story of two Australian families brought together by adversity during the 1950's and 60's.'
'Two white Australian families, both disabled members, end up sharing a house. One is hard working and poor but proud, the other is into betting and booze. Strangely, they don't end up killing each other and one of the children seems to have been swapped at birth. This book is part grounded and realistic and part mystic. Sometimes the two parts work together, as when the mentally handicapped man talks about ghosts and is misunderstood. A long read, but it is easy to get attached to some of the characters. If you like family stories go for it.'
'Probably the most extraordinary book I have ever read. A myriad of strange characters, vivid and very beautiful imagery, juxtaposed with the mundane and trivial, even banal. It took me some time to get into it but once I had I found it a compulsive read. It was a bit like 'Grapes of Wrath' in an Australian setting. There was, incredibly, also a spiritual element. Was the 'black man' real?'
I hope that everyone gets a chance to read it and to come to the next meeting. As always, feel free to invite new peeps to the club and add comments to the blog.
Hope everyone is well and thanks for all of your support.
I, unfortunately, wasn't able to attend the meeting that Jane so nicely had at her home last night. I snuck in around 10:30, just in time to grab a couple glasses of wine. So far, I have only heard a few opinions about 3 Cups, but the verdict so far is very informative, but less of a pleasure read than some of our past books. I think that is just the difference between fiction and non-fiction. I definitely found Greg Mortensen's tale very inspiring, especially for someone who is completely uncertain about what they would like to do. It was a lot of information, though, and I had to push myself through some parts. As a side note, the co-author, David Oliver Relin, apparently lives in Portland and I saw a car Friday night with a license plate that said "3 Cups T". I'm pretty sure it was him, so, needless to say, I have had an amazing brush with near-celebrity.
The next book on our incredible journey is Cloudstreet by: Tim Winton. I had never heard of this book, but have had several conversations with Christine and Cam about it. In Australia, the book is a modern classic and Cam cannot wait for us to take on the deep, Outback dialect. (That's the region, not the restaurant ladies.) He said to prepare ourselves for some complicated translating, but that the book is one of his absolute favorites.
Here are some reviews of Cloudstreet:
'I found that it took a while to get into this book. Once I got my head round the use of Australian colloquialisms and strange names (Fish, Quick) I thought this was an excellent story of two Australian families brought together by adversity during the 1950's and 60's.'
'Two white Australian families, both disabled members, end up sharing a house. One is hard working and poor but proud, the other is into betting and booze. Strangely, they don't end up killing each other and one of the children seems to have been swapped at birth. This book is part grounded and realistic and part mystic. Sometimes the two parts work together, as when the mentally handicapped man talks about ghosts and is misunderstood. A long read, but it is easy to get attached to some of the characters. If you like family stories go for it.'
'Probably the most extraordinary book I have ever read. A myriad of strange characters, vivid and very beautiful imagery, juxtaposed with the mundane and trivial, even banal. It took me some time to get into it but once I had I found it a compulsive read. It was a bit like 'Grapes of Wrath' in an Australian setting. There was, incredibly, also a spiritual element. Was the 'black man' real?'
I hope that everyone gets a chance to read it and to come to the next meeting. As always, feel free to invite new peeps to the club and add comments to the blog.
Hope everyone is well and thanks for all of your support.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Tying it all together
Hey Stacked ladies!
I think that every meeting thusfar has clarified the dozens of aspects of the various books that were a little bit cloudy or incomplete. That being said, no book was more confusing for me to tie together than Garcia Girls. I really enjoyed the book taken as a series of short, self-contained vignettes, but when attempting to tie all of the tales and episodes of the book together and sort out an overall theme or meaning, I was at a loss. I really just couldn't marry the situations together.
So, once again, I think our discussion really came to the rescue. I was able to list elements of the book that didn't make sense to me and get really great feedback about something I had missed or not picked up on. Talking it out really helped me create a better timeline of events and picture of the Garcia family.
I still think there are aspects of the book that I will struggle with no matter what such as Alvarez' use of language and some weird sexual events, but all in all I think it was the easiest book for the group to relate to so far. It seemed, more than any other book, like this one reminded all of us of something that happened during our childhood or of a relationship we have with a family member.
Anyway, on to Norman Mailer. I myself have never read a Norman Mailer book, but am excited to undertake the endeavor after how many things I have read about him. An American Dream is supposed to be filled with all the makings of a great novel including alcoholism, murder, sex, and the urban underworld. Can't wait to start!
Just a quick logistics update: our next meeting would have been the 3rd (first Thursday of July), which will sort of be a Friday because everyone has the next day off. I moved the meeting to Tuesday the 1st tentatively. Please let me know if that day doesn't work. Can't wait to discuss!
I think that every meeting thusfar has clarified the dozens of aspects of the various books that were a little bit cloudy or incomplete. That being said, no book was more confusing for me to tie together than Garcia Girls. I really enjoyed the book taken as a series of short, self-contained vignettes, but when attempting to tie all of the tales and episodes of the book together and sort out an overall theme or meaning, I was at a loss. I really just couldn't marry the situations together.
So, once again, I think our discussion really came to the rescue. I was able to list elements of the book that didn't make sense to me and get really great feedback about something I had missed or not picked up on. Talking it out really helped me create a better timeline of events and picture of the Garcia family.
I still think there are aspects of the book that I will struggle with no matter what such as Alvarez' use of language and some weird sexual events, but all in all I think it was the easiest book for the group to relate to so far. It seemed, more than any other book, like this one reminded all of us of something that happened during our childhood or of a relationship we have with a family member.
Anyway, on to Norman Mailer. I myself have never read a Norman Mailer book, but am excited to undertake the endeavor after how many things I have read about him. An American Dream is supposed to be filled with all the makings of a great novel including alcoholism, murder, sex, and the urban underworld. Can't wait to start!
Just a quick logistics update: our next meeting would have been the 3rd (first Thursday of July), which will sort of be a Friday because everyone has the next day off. I moved the meeting to Tuesday the 1st tentatively. Please let me know if that day doesn't work. Can't wait to discuss!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Some highs, some lows
This is Kim. So first and foremost, I have to admit that I am a little bit behind on this book (hence the first post on it being May 20th). I have had a very busy month, which I think is pretty true for everyone. That being said, there are a few things I have noticed about the books so far that I am anxious to discuss with fellow readers.
First, I think that Alvarez's ability to write familial politics is extraordinary. By politics I don't mean sisters working to ensure a certain inheritance or anything like that. Their political actions are much more subtle and detectable only by someone related. Anyone with siblings knows the nuances I'm referring to. For example, at the wedding as the poor, drunk mother attempts to tell the story of the red sneakers, the sisters are studying one another. Each of the other's actions reiterates something that the girls have learned about their sisters after decades of study. Each of the girls is saying just enough to participate in the dance that has become the Garcias' interactions. The all have a role and, however annoying they are to one another, they must continue to play it. Further, I think that the struggle of the book will come from the characters attempting to break out of the mold that has been made for them by their family members.
So, the tension that Alvarez creates, that anyone with a family recognizes, is what I am really enjoying about the novel thus far. What I am having the most trouble with is the feminity of the world the author has created. While I understand the way she is painting the friendly interactions of the characters I'm having a hard time with how gossipy and girly everything is, almost as though she is trying to build on a preexisting cliche. To be honest, I can't quite wrap my head around what is bothering me about that aspect of the book, so feel free to comment (in favor or against) if you can help me say what I am trying to.
I hope everyone is enjoying the book! I look forward to hear what you think of it!
First, I think that Alvarez's ability to write familial politics is extraordinary. By politics I don't mean sisters working to ensure a certain inheritance or anything like that. Their political actions are much more subtle and detectable only by someone related. Anyone with siblings knows the nuances I'm referring to. For example, at the wedding as the poor, drunk mother attempts to tell the story of the red sneakers, the sisters are studying one another. Each of the other's actions reiterates something that the girls have learned about their sisters after decades of study. Each of the girls is saying just enough to participate in the dance that has become the Garcias' interactions. The all have a role and, however annoying they are to one another, they must continue to play it. Further, I think that the struggle of the book will come from the characters attempting to break out of the mold that has been made for them by their family members.
So, the tension that Alvarez creates, that anyone with a family recognizes, is what I am really enjoying about the novel thus far. What I am having the most trouble with is the feminity of the world the author has created. While I understand the way she is painting the friendly interactions of the characters I'm having a hard time with how gossipy and girly everything is, almost as though she is trying to build on a preexisting cliche. To be honest, I can't quite wrap my head around what is bothering me about that aspect of the book, so feel free to comment (in favor or against) if you can help me say what I am trying to.
I hope everyone is enjoying the book! I look forward to hear what you think of it!
Saturday, April 26, 2008
A couple of updates
Hey bookies!
I hope everyone is enjoying the antics of Ignatius J. Reilly. I have been trying to read as much as possible to refresh my memory of his hilarity. Jane and I were discussing how magnetic this novel is. Even when I plan to just read for a few moments I find myself getting sucked in and reading for awhile, almost just wanting to see the effect of what has just occurred.
I wanted to discuss the next meeting with everyone and get some ideas about how to do it. As many of you know our dear Jacquie and her adorable fiance Dillon have decided to abandon us and return to Nevada. Due to this, this meeting will be Jacquie's last. I was thinking that it would be fun to do cocktails and appetizers out on the town, but wanted some ideas of cheap but nice places to go. If you have any suggestions let me know! The only place I really came up with was Andina, mainly because they have a very decent and affordable happy hour.
Also, I will need a head count for a reservation so please let me know if you can make it.
Please send me some ideas!
I hope everyone is enjoying the antics of Ignatius J. Reilly. I have been trying to read as much as possible to refresh my memory of his hilarity. Jane and I were discussing how magnetic this novel is. Even when I plan to just read for a few moments I find myself getting sucked in and reading for awhile, almost just wanting to see the effect of what has just occurred.
I wanted to discuss the next meeting with everyone and get some ideas about how to do it. As many of you know our dear Jacquie and her adorable fiance Dillon have decided to abandon us and return to Nevada. Due to this, this meeting will be Jacquie's last. I was thinking that it would be fun to do cocktails and appetizers out on the town, but wanted some ideas of cheap but nice places to go. If you have any suggestions let me know! The only place I really came up with was Andina, mainly because they have a very decent and affordable happy hour.
Also, I will need a head count for a reservation so please let me know if you can make it.
Please send me some ideas!
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Book Cover
Ok Kim,
We all love this book, I'll just throw that out there for everybody. But the book cover you have chosen to display this novel is perturbing. I feel that when you read only the first few pages you get a pretty solid idea of what Ignatius looks like and I tell you this: he does not look like this LUIGI character that has been mistakenly smeared on this childbook cover. I personally like this one...
Still pretentious and bigger than life. Less Luigi. Ok. Gotta get back to reading.
Christine... out.
We all love this book, I'll just throw that out there for everybody. But the book cover you have chosen to display this novel is perturbing. I feel that when you read only the first few pages you get a pretty solid idea of what Ignatius looks like and I tell you this: he does not look like this LUIGI character that has been mistakenly smeared on this childbook cover. I personally like this one...
Still pretentious and bigger than life. Less Luigi. Ok. Gotta get back to reading.
Christine... out.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
On to a new book!
Hey guys. This is Kim. So after the last meeting I think I can safely say that the general consensus on Middlesex is that it lacked a few too many things to be considered a great book. Many people, myself included, were even baffled that it is a Pulitzer Prize winner. The story itself was amazing. It was not only creative, but interesting , original, and educational. In the first half of the novel I learned so much about not only Greece but early Detroit.
That being said Eugenides particular style left so much more to be desired. A few people at the meeting went as far to call him smug and condescending. His metaphors felt both overdone and incomplete at the same time. There was also a mention of him being a little unrealistic. (What are the chances of a hermaphrodite growing up on a street called Middlesex?)
I personally struggled with two things: his over-foreshadowing and his narration. As far as the foreshadowing, I got tired of being told that at some point he was going to explain certain things over and over again. Finally when the explanation was given it wasn't worth the wait.
The narrator as a character was also quite difficult for me. He wrote the book in first person as a hermaphrodite man writing a book, needing to get the whole situation off of his chest. At point's the narrator calls on the reader to observe or decide certain things, making the whole fake memoir thing even more confusing. Are we really supposed to actually invest ourselves in this whole mess as a fly on the wall, ignoring the fact that it is all fiction?
Anyway, I thought the book was actually a great success. This is definitely a fun group to have the gloves come off and really lay into a topic. I really enjoy getting critical with everyone.
One important thing that we need to discuss is if the next meeting should be moved. Jane is going to be in Ecuador and requested that we push it back a week. Any thoughts?
I am excited for the discussion of Dunces, especially because it is completely different type of book. COMEDY!
Here is a link to a little info about John Kennedy Toole. His story is pretty interesting, mainly because he killed himself 11 years prior to the books publication.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Kennedy_Toole
That being said Eugenides particular style left so much more to be desired. A few people at the meeting went as far to call him smug and condescending. His metaphors felt both overdone and incomplete at the same time. There was also a mention of him being a little unrealistic. (What are the chances of a hermaphrodite growing up on a street called Middlesex?)
I personally struggled with two things: his over-foreshadowing and his narration. As far as the foreshadowing, I got tired of being told that at some point he was going to explain certain things over and over again. Finally when the explanation was given it wasn't worth the wait.
The narrator as a character was also quite difficult for me. He wrote the book in first person as a hermaphrodite man writing a book, needing to get the whole situation off of his chest. At point's the narrator calls on the reader to observe or decide certain things, making the whole fake memoir thing even more confusing. Are we really supposed to actually invest ourselves in this whole mess as a fly on the wall, ignoring the fact that it is all fiction?
Anyway, I thought the book was actually a great success. This is definitely a fun group to have the gloves come off and really lay into a topic. I really enjoy getting critical with everyone.
One important thing that we need to discuss is if the next meeting should be moved. Jane is going to be in Ecuador and requested that we push it back a week. Any thoughts?
I am excited for the discussion of Dunces, especially because it is completely different type of book. COMEDY!
Here is a link to a little info about John Kennedy Toole. His story is pretty interesting, mainly because he killed himself 11 years prior to the books publication.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Kennedy_Toole
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Nearing the End
This is Kim. So I am getting close to the end of the book and can't wait for the opportunity to discuss it. Actually anyone who has seen me in the last week has probably observed my eagerness to talk about it. I am desperately trying to save everything for the meeting on Thursday.
So one of my primary concerns for the meeting is that we have a little bit more structured format than the last meeting. I really like the free-flow of ideas, but also want everyone to have an opportunity to speak. So, with that in mind, I was hoping that everyone who is planning on attending on Thursday could bring at least one discussion topic. I definitely don't want the Club to turn into a class, but do think that will guarantee everyone the chance to talk. Obviously, one discussion topic is not a limit. The more the merrier!
Also, I know there are a few people who will not be able to make it. I was hoping that maybe you guys could post a few ideas on the blog for us to pool from at the meeting.
In conversations that I have had some of the topics that have been raised are things like: the background of the author, the use of a narrator, Greek culture, and gender roles (a male author writing from a female perspective). Those are some ideas! Can't wait to see/hear from everyone!
So one of my primary concerns for the meeting is that we have a little bit more structured format than the last meeting. I really like the free-flow of ideas, but also want everyone to have an opportunity to speak. So, with that in mind, I was hoping that everyone who is planning on attending on Thursday could bring at least one discussion topic. I definitely don't want the Club to turn into a class, but do think that will guarantee everyone the chance to talk. Obviously, one discussion topic is not a limit. The more the merrier!
Also, I know there are a few people who will not be able to make it. I was hoping that maybe you guys could post a few ideas on the blog for us to pool from at the meeting.
In conversations that I have had some of the topics that have been raised are things like: the background of the author, the use of a narrator, Greek culture, and gender roles (a male author writing from a female perspective). Those are some ideas! Can't wait to see/hear from everyone!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Middlesex in Portland
"An Oregon man who used to be a woman says he is pregnant with a baby girl"
Hey kids,
Christine here.
You may have heard about this guy on the news... check out his and his wife's wacky story about HIM having their child. He is 5 months pregnant so far, as the report said tonight. Kinda correlates with our story... kinda not. Enjoy!
Hey kids,
Christine here.
You may have heard about this guy on the news... check out his and his wife's wacky story about HIM having their child. He is 5 months pregnant so far, as the report said tonight. Kinda correlates with our story... kinda not. Enjoy!
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Can you say incest?
Kim here. So the first thing I have to say with respect to Middlesex is that I think it is the exact opposite of Cannery Row. Where Cannery Row paints a picture and the reader is expected to infer emotion, Eugenides tells you every detail about everything going on in any situation. Needless to say, for me the transition was a little bit rough. In the first fifty or so pages, I found myself constantly going back to try and remember all of the names and references the reader is immediately given from the narrator's family.
That being said, I really like this book so far. Yes the transition was a little tough, but now that I am into it I love the detail Eugenides is constantly inundating me with. The story seems to be less about the big picture and more about the intricacies of familial relationships. I love the explanation of the wedding on pg 68-69: "We Greeks get married in circles, to impress upon ourselves the essential matrimonial facts: that to be happy you have to find variety in repetition; that to go forward you have to come back where you began."
Anyway, I am fascinated and excited to continue reading!
That being said, I really like this book so far. Yes the transition was a little tough, but now that I am into it I love the detail Eugenides is constantly inundating me with. The story seems to be less about the big picture and more about the intricacies of familial relationships. I love the explanation of the wedding on pg 68-69: "We Greeks get married in circles, to impress upon ourselves the essential matrimonial facts: that to be happy you have to find variety in repetition; that to go forward you have to come back where you began."
Anyway, I am fascinated and excited to continue reading!
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Cannery Row Meeting
This is Kim. So, as usual, I had a wonderful time at Thursday's meeting. What I noticed and really enjoyed was that discussing the episodes or themes in the book led to a much broader discussion about our personal experience, which completely separates a book club from a course where a purely academic tone must be maintained. Not only do I feel like I learned a lot about everyone, I thought about my own experiences that I haven't thought about years.
As far as Cannery Row goes, there were a lot of mixed feelings on the book. I would say the verdict was about fifty/fifty on how everyone felt about the novel. There were also a few parts that we were all puzzled by and had interesting assessments of the events. Here are a few parts that we discussed. Please feel free to explain how you felt about them, especially if you couldn't make it to the meeting!
the gophers
the dead body Doc discovers in the rocks
the skater on the building
the hitch hiker's interaction with Doc
Mrs. Talbot and the cats
the frogs
Please add to this list because I have definitely forgotten several things.
Also, as far as the socializing aspect of the Club, we discussed having next meeting be a cocktail party.
Sarah suggesting doing a getaway to her parents cabin at some point this summer. We'll need to figure out when is a good time for everyone. (Can we say hottub!)
Now for Middlesex...
As far as Cannery Row goes, there were a lot of mixed feelings on the book. I would say the verdict was about fifty/fifty on how everyone felt about the novel. There were also a few parts that we were all puzzled by and had interesting assessments of the events. Here are a few parts that we discussed. Please feel free to explain how you felt about them, especially if you couldn't make it to the meeting!
the gophers
the dead body Doc discovers in the rocks
the skater on the building
the hitch hiker's interaction with Doc
Mrs. Talbot and the cats
the frogs
Please add to this list because I have definitely forgotten several things.
Also, as far as the socializing aspect of the Club, we discussed having next meeting be a cocktail party.
Sarah suggesting doing a getaway to her parents cabin at some point this summer. We'll need to figure out when is a good time for everyone. (Can we say hottub!)
Now for Middlesex...
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Mrs. Talbot
In discussions that I have had about Cannery Row, people have repeatedly asked me if I've gotten to the part about the lady who likes to throw parties. I finally arrived at Chapter 24 today and was very pleased with his description of dear, old Mary Talbot. The thing that I think Steinbeck has done so well throughout this novel is describe a character without passing or even hinting at judgment. He continues this with Mary and shows how she behaves, but doesn't pity or glorify her. I think she sounds incredibly interesting and absolutely fabulous for just being able to entertain herself both effortlessly and creatively.
Also, I wanted to revisit some previous thoughts on Steinbeck's glorification of Mack and the boys, who I see as the complex heroes of the town, even though they manage to destroy everything they touch. Doc's observations of the guys in Chapter 23 are beautifully written and I think once again reflects own vision of what life truly is and what should be valued in it. He writes from Doc's perspective, "They could ruin their lives and get money. Mack has qualities of genius. They're all very clever if they want something. They just know the nature of things too well to be caught in that wanting" Then later, "The things we admire in men, kindness and generosity, openness, honesty understanding and feeling are the concomitants of failure in our system. And those traits we detest, sharpness, greed acquisitiveness, meanness, egotism and self-interest, are the traits of success. And while men admire the quality of the first they love the produce of the second."
Also, I wanted to revisit some previous thoughts on Steinbeck's glorification of Mack and the boys, who I see as the complex heroes of the town, even though they manage to destroy everything they touch. Doc's observations of the guys in Chapter 23 are beautifully written and I think once again reflects own vision of what life truly is and what should be valued in it. He writes from Doc's perspective, "They could ruin their lives and get money. Mack has qualities of genius. They're all very clever if they want something. They just know the nature of things too well to be caught in that wanting" Then later, "The things we admire in men, kindness and generosity, openness, honesty understanding and feeling are the concomitants of failure in our system. And those traits we detest, sharpness, greed acquisitiveness, meanness, egotism and self-interest, are the traits of success. And while men admire the quality of the first they love the produce of the second."
Monday, February 18, 2008
Funny Line
I just read Chapter 11. I thought the paragraph about Model T's was not only well written but hilarious. He says "Someone should write an erudtie essay on the moral, physical, and esthetic effect of the Model T Ford on the American nation. Two generations of Americans knew more about the Ford coil than the clitoris, about the planetary system of gears than the solar system of stars."
It seems there are a lot of good lines, but that one in particular jumped out at me.
It seems there are a lot of good lines, but that one in particular jumped out at me.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Chapter Two
So, I really like this book so far. I really enjoy the amount of detail he is pouring into the town. I'm sure by the end we will all feel like we have been there.
My only question so far is Chapter Two. I think it is beautifully written, but had a hard time trying to figure out what the point he's trying to get at is. I understand the religious metaphors but couldn't wrap my head all the way around it.
Any thoughts?
My only question so far is Chapter Two. I think it is beautifully written, but had a hard time trying to figure out what the point he's trying to get at is. I understand the religious metaphors but couldn't wrap my head all the way around it.
Any thoughts?
Friday, February 8, 2008
Great Success
So I definitely thought that the first meeting went really well. It is obvious that everyone in the group has read quite a bit. It was even difficult to find books that no more than one person had read. I can't wait for the conversations to come and feel like I have a lot to learn from the other women in the group. Also, I think that it is important to note that we have stumbled upon a very saucy group of ladies. I think that above educational, the club is going to be very entertaining, as long as we remember to bring more wine next time. Apparently, for future reference, Kevin won't go out at 12:30 to get us another bottle.
Does anyone know anything about this novel?
Does anyone know anything about this novel?
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Getting Ready!
So we are finally ready to meet. The first meeting will pretty much just consist of setting a twelve month schedule and figuring out how we want to approach the books. We'll see how it goes!
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