Divermarv

In retrospect I think I misnamed this little challenge. It’s not really any sort of bingo is it. No it’s not. And yet… what’s in a name? We’ll just end that there.

The Alchemist

Classic novel by an author whose name starts with A, B, C, D, or E

A much touted book, and one I’ve owned, at the recommendation of an acquaintance, for a few years. Dare I say that this challenge was originally for me to clear out my to read pile?

I thoroughly enjoyed The Alchemist. A great, and not preachy or pretentious, allegory. The themes of stepping out of one’s comfort zone, taking risks, and letting go of the familiar were superbly communicated. In my writing endeavors, I feel I have started down this path. But in reading I realized I need to commit further. And I shall.

Not everything is rosy, nor is it clear and understandable in Santiago’s journeys. And that is of much help to me. I’ve always felt as if I’m making my way through life in the dark… using a gas station flashlight with old batteries. I can’t see clearly, nor far. Neither could Santiago. Are you pursuing your dream? Are you committing to your personal legend? If you can’t say yes, then are you even trying.

I’m happy to have finished this, and I think when I complete my first manuscript and start the publishing portion of that journey I shall read it again. Renew my commitment.

The diaries of Adam and Eve

Any Mark Twain book other than Tom Sawyer or Huckleberry Finn

I have always been a huge fan of Mark Twain. His quaint humor and storytelling was a great influence on younger me. I’ve read quite a bit of his, but had never heard of this book, and was glad to have found it in my search.

The humor didn’t disappoint. I have always heard a certain voice in my head that was, as far as I’m concerned, his actual one. I could even smell the cigar smoke I’m sure clung to him.

The book was dryly funny, and an interesting take as a sideways account of the Judeo-Christian creation myth. Twain exhibited an old-fashioned, ideology of gender roles. Definitely nineteenth century (you know the ideology too many modern people are trying to move us back to). And it was quaint. However there was one statement towards the back of the book, in the Eve’s Diary section, that stung to hear Twain say it in my head.

If you can sigh and move on from one small misogynistic allusion then I’d recommend this book. I’m trying to not let it sour me on his work. He was a product of his time. Sigh. It’s like an abused wife saying “he’s a good man…”.

Ultimately I’m glad I read this book. It’s another data point to be cautious of idolizing human beings, for they are all set and fallible. All.

Next up…

The Poetic and Prose Eddas. Ancient Icelandic tales by unknown authors as well as Snorri Sturluson. Then Schrödinger’s What is Life.