The Questions That Matter Most: Reading, Writing, and the Exercise of Freedom by Jane Smiley. Wow - quite a title and a lot to think about. I've read most of Jane Smiley's fiction and it's excellent. Here in her essays, her skills, thought process, and deep dive into character are quite educational and thought provoking.
cover blurb - Smiley dives beneath surface level interpretations to examine the works of de Navarre, Dickens, Trollope, Beecher Stowe, Alcott, Twain, Cather, and more. Smiley works to think harder and, in her words, with "more clarity and nuance about the questions that matter most".
I had to really think here. Great writing. Impressive contrasts and comparisons. She has inspired me to go back and read some classics that I haven't read in a zillion years. I need to approach with a new appreciation.
I got this book at the library after perusing the shelves. Her name made me grab this book and I'm glad. Got the gray matter astir. Dang!
Sounds like you'll be reading those classics with a new perspective!
ReplyDeleteI actually have started revisiting some golden oldies with a newfound appreciation. Some writers still annoy me - Ernest Hemmingway. Ha!
DeleteHi Joanne - I think! I've library reserved one of her earlier books to look at - let you know anon! Cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteShe’s a solid writer. You’ll get the Midwest experience. Enjoy!
DeleteHi Joanne - I did get it out of the library and realised I needed to spend time with it - so 'left' it for now - but I was impressed ... Cheers Hilary
ReplyDelete