Update on the Way
I certainly have been lax in my Artist's Way efforts! Not only have I skipped two weeks of morning pages, but I also failed quite miserably in the "no reading" policy of this period. But I'm dusting myself off and stiffly approaching the proverbial horse once again, ready to mount up.
Breaking the no reading assignment was, in my feeling, more than worth it. My most notable literary venture was The Time-Traveler's Wife by Audry Niffenegger. When I heard that Eric Bana is starring in the film version of the book that's coming out around November, I thought that between his involvement -- he's only a small step down from the wonderful Hugh Jackman in my book, especially as Hector in Troy! -- and my vague grasp of the plot, this movie is something I'd be interested in checking out. However, as the book is usually better than its film counterpart, I checked the novel out of the library and journeyed in.
I had low expectations. "National bestsellers" put me in mind of The DaVinci Code, Oprah's book club, Danielle Steele, and, in general, books that may be entertaining but are also of moderate to low quality. Book snob that I am, such texts barely earn a passing glance from me. I only read The DaVinci Code because I was down the shore and wanted something quick and light for the beach. (Plus, I wanted a more informed opinion regarding its then-controversial contents.)
Niffenegger's book was nothing like my thin and sanctimonious expectations. Instead, I discovered an intricately woven plot, vivid characters that walked with me after I closed the pages, and delicate, well-crafted prose. It's been some time since I've met characters that I can truly root for, mourn with, and love. The whole tale reminded me of the voice of the graphic novel Blankets, and the male main character seemed the literary incarnation of Neil Gaiman, somehow. I loved it, devoured, luxuriated in every word. My only criticism is that there is some sexual content that briefly smears the artfulness of the story. But overall -- what rare joy!
Breaking the no reading assignment was, in my feeling, more than worth it. My most notable literary venture was The Time-Traveler's Wife by Audry Niffenegger. When I heard that Eric Bana is starring in the film version of the book that's coming out around November, I thought that between his involvement -- he's only a small step down from the wonderful Hugh Jackman in my book, especially as Hector in Troy! -- and my vague grasp of the plot, this movie is something I'd be interested in checking out. However, as the book is usually better than its film counterpart, I checked the novel out of the library and journeyed in.
I had low expectations. "National bestsellers" put me in mind of The DaVinci Code, Oprah's book club, Danielle Steele, and, in general, books that may be entertaining but are also of moderate to low quality. Book snob that I am, such texts barely earn a passing glance from me. I only read The DaVinci Code because I was down the shore and wanted something quick and light for the beach. (Plus, I wanted a more informed opinion regarding its then-controversial contents.)
Niffenegger's book was nothing like my thin and sanctimonious expectations. Instead, I discovered an intricately woven plot, vivid characters that walked with me after I closed the pages, and delicate, well-crafted prose. It's been some time since I've met characters that I can truly root for, mourn with, and love. The whole tale reminded me of the voice of the graphic novel Blankets, and the male main character seemed the literary incarnation of Neil Gaiman, somehow. I loved it, devoured, luxuriated in every word. My only criticism is that there is some sexual content that briefly smears the artfulness of the story. But overall -- what rare joy!