Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Reading

Disclaimer: I am not an expert on writing. No shock there, right? I'm pretty sure, though, that writing has something to do with reading. So, in preparation for Tristi Pinkston's most excellent challenge, I've read a few books to get the creative juices flowing. The latest novel was The Count of Monte Cristo. Before that I read Wings by Aprilynne Pike, the ARC for The Maze Runner by James Dashner, The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan and The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Currently, I just read Graham Bradley's MS of Sidewinder (totally awesome!) and I'm in the middle of Donna's MS of Riptide (I can't wait to see this one in print!). I think I may have shot myself in the foot with The Count, though, being my most recent read. I mean, come on! There's a reason it's a classic. It's witty and intelligent, has depth and meaning. Oh! and it talks about God, redemption, revenge and the complex human state. All within the constrains of reality. No fantasy. No magic. No machines squashing humans like bugs. No alien invasions. No vampires or faeries. Just people living their lives. I think it might've hit a little too close to home in some respects, but then, a good book should have that affect on you. I mean, if it doesn't evoke even a glimmer of emotion in you, then what's the point in reading it? Don't get me wrong, I love action. LOVE action. But without the motivation...I just can't get behind it. And that right there is the standard I'm searching for. The bar that I may never reach. But I'm crossing my fingers that I might come close.

8 comments:

  1. Amen! Donna and I were just talking about the differences between the classic novel, and current fiction.

    Now I just need to know if reading The Count of Monte Cristo in the nude would qualify as good naked or bad naked.

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  2. Yes! If you can't connect with a story emotionally, than what's the point? Like these action and CGI based movies where a story is barely required - it's like eating cotton candy, it's fun, but doesn't stay with you.

    Keep aiming for the heart, Tart.

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  3. Speak for yourself Linda, Transformers is branded upon my highly literary soul! :-D

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  4. GUYS GUYS GUYS!!! I submitted Sidewinder to Tristi last night! T-minus 8 weeks and counting to a decision!

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  5. Movies are different, Graham. I can watch a movie like Transformers and not care about story and plot because I'm entertained by explosions and gunfire. Books, on the other hand...

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  6. Graham I'm sure it's not just the CGI action you love about transformers. I bet Megan Fox has something to do with it. ;)

    Good luck with your submission!

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