As I seem to be on a posting spree today, let me go one more.
There is an interesting post here about How to read books above your level.
I am unsure if I agree 100% with what the guy is saying, but I do know that the introduction is what propelled me through Dorian Gray (even if it isn’t that difficult) and it was worth every minute. I came out throughly depressed, but slightly awed, so it all balances out.
My simple advice is to read those more difficult books when you’ve got enough time on your hands to not be thinking about other things. Pretty darn obvious.
For example: Do not try and read a Dostoevsky when you are organising a wedding. It just doesn’t work.
Curious, what did you disagree with?
Hi Ryan,
Possibly in the fact that it somewhat feels like a sterilising process. I’d (not always but usually) lean toward avoiding the reviews until after so as to understand my own response to the book or my own response to a good piece of literature etc. regardless of my complete/incomplete understanding. If that makes any sense. I guess it comes down to why (and what) you’re reading that particular book.
cheers
Bec
Better yet…don’t read a Dostoevsky ever – whoever he is – and just watch more movies!
Just so you know bec, I do plan to read something…sometime…that’s not a text book or a screenplay.