Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Book Review - Spring by Karl Ove Knausgaard

and now Spring by Karl Ove Knausgaard. I've given reviews on Autumn and Winter by this Norwegian author. His work is unique - gripping and brilliantly rendered. Sensitive, pensive, and honest style. Spring is the account of a shocking and heartbreaking familial trauma and the emotional epicenter of this singular literary series.  (cover blurb)

This author's project is addressed to his newborn daughter, and he has to discuss appointments with child services. He must keep his daughter safe, and he shares a very emotional day involving psychological suspense and family issues. This man holds back nothing. We are privy to some very deep writing - it's beautiful, it's incredible, and thought provoking.

p. 177 The great and terrifying beauty does not abandon us, it is there all the time, in everything that is always the same, in the sun and the stars, in the bonfire and the darkness, in the blue carpet of flowers beneath the tree. It is of no use to us, it is too big for us, but we can look at it, and we can bow before it. 

Spring is not to be taken for granted. Beyond the pretty flowers, there is so much more to grasp. I enjoy Mr. Knausgaard for his truly deep thoughts. Very poetic prose.  This book and series are ones to read and re-read for different nuances. 

13 comments:

  1. Wow. Just judging by the excerpt you includes, this sounds like the kind of book that punches you right in the head and heart. Thanks for the recommendation. I'll have to check out this series.

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    1. It can be tough and yet tender. Gotta love the Scandinavian style.

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  2. My what a book that sounds Joanne, thanks for sharing this with us .

    Yvonne.

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  3. Yeah, it doesn't sound like it pulls punches.

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  4. Letting it all hang out sure can make for a compelling read.

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  5. Nice. I'm glad you enjoyed this one, and his writing is indeed poetic.
    Thank you, Joanne.

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  6. Sounds like a thought-provoking book. Thanks for the review.

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  7. Hi Joanne - sounds a really deep read ... I must look for it once this period in our lives returns to normal ... I have enough to keep me occupied for now. Cheers Hilary

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