Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Friday, October 11, 2013
An Anne book. Always a pleasure. The book is not reality-I don't think that was the purpose. It's comfort food. Like what I did for five days with Auntie. It's not just the food, it is the company. There's nothing like a sister.. I have been interrupted with a couple other books, I finished Rilla today. Great day. I even went outside for awhile to read. Food (from the past), comfort and an L. M. Montgomery book. Does it get any better?
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Still Sad About Walter + Comfort Food
Well, I'm still sad about Walter. In light of mom's last post, I was reading about "In Flander's Fields" and I actually think now that Walter's poem "The Piper" was perhaps supposed to be a fictional version of "In Flander's Fields." According to Wikipedia, it was written by a Canadian soldier and first published in a London publication, and was used to recruit soldiers and sell war bonds.
I've probably read this book about 50 times and I'll probably read it at least that many more times. I don't know what it is with me and the Anne of Green Gable books - I like them more than anyone I've ever met, and have read them more than anyone I've met. They're like comfort food to me except it's a book instead of food. I looked up comfort food on Wikipedia and I do think it describes how I feel about the Anne books, which I've been reading since about the age of 10:
Comfort food is traditionally eaten food (which often provides a nostalgic or sentimental feeling to the person eating it), or simply provides the consumer an easy-to-digest meal, soft in consistency, and rich in calories, nutrients, or both.
Comfort foods may be consumed to positively pique emotions, to relieve negative psychological effects or to increase positive feelings.
One study divided college-students' comfort-food identifications into four categories (nostalgic foods, indulgence foods, convenience foods, and physical comfort foods) with a special emphasis on the deliberate selection of particular foods to modify mood or effect, and indications that the medical-therapeutic use of particular foods may ultimately be a matter of mood-alteration.
I've probably read this book about 50 times and I'll probably read it at least that many more times. I don't know what it is with me and the Anne of Green Gable books - I like them more than anyone I've ever met, and have read them more than anyone I've met. They're like comfort food to me except it's a book instead of food. I looked up comfort food on Wikipedia and I do think it describes how I feel about the Anne books, which I've been reading since about the age of 10:
Comfort food is traditionally eaten food (which often provides a nostalgic or sentimental feeling to the person eating it), or simply provides the consumer an easy-to-digest meal, soft in consistency, and rich in calories, nutrients, or both.
Comfort foods may be consumed to positively pique emotions, to relieve negative psychological effects or to increase positive feelings.
One study divided college-students' comfort-food identifications into four categories (nostalgic foods, indulgence foods, convenience foods, and physical comfort foods) with a special emphasis on the deliberate selection of particular foods to modify mood or effect, and indications that the medical-therapeutic use of particular foods may ultimately be a matter of mood-alteration.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Of course Walter had to die. I should have seen it coming more clearly. I knew the Blythe family would lose someone. They couldn't get by unscathed. I would like to slap Irene Howard. That would make everyone feel better.
I like how everyone just keeps going everyday. They don't have a choice about the sun coming up, but they do have a choice on how they will face it. I'm beginning to think the war will not end! The United States needs to get into gear and end this thing. Looking forward to the last chapters.
I like how everyone just keeps going everyday. They don't have a choice about the sun coming up, but they do have a choice on how they will face it. I'm beginning to think the war will not end! The United States needs to get into gear and end this thing. Looking forward to the last chapters.
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Oh My!
Well ladies, I finished this book a couple of weeks ago but decided to see how the rest of you responded before tossing in my cynical veteran's view. Sorry, reading this was like reading a 30s Shirley Temple script...silly nonsense. I've never been a teenage girl; but I've been around quite a few and none of them were remotely similar to Rilla. I grant you young girls (and boys for that matter) fantasize and dream of the perfect romance. They respond openly, however, with anger, confusion and rebellion. All normal transitional stuff. As a veteran of combat, men rarely talk to their women (or other noncombatants) because there is no way to describe the situations and how you (the individual soldier) reacted and responded. I have read a number of very well written personal descriptions of combat situations and not one of them contains the emotion(s) of the actual moments. I don't profess to understand the fear and pain of the mothers, sisters and loved ones at home and in the same vein of thought, noncombatant authors should not project their emotions (no matter how true to their gender and experience) as an understanding of those of the soldier. I've vented.
On the other hand, I liked LMM's writing style. The Canadian politics and views towards America at the time were very interesting. Most of my reading has been from the American perspective so this was a bit enlightening. While Rilla's maturation and perspective change was well portrayed, I found it to be a flight of fancy. I doubt any upper middle-class teenage Canadian girls in the second decade of the twentieth century would respond even remotely like Rilla. Having said all this, it is fiction, so enjoy the rest of your read.
Well ladies, I finished this book a couple of weeks ago but decided to see how the rest of you responded before tossing in my cynical veteran's view. Sorry, reading this was like reading a 30s Shirley Temple script...silly nonsense. I've never been a teenage girl; but I've been around quite a few and none of them were remotely similar to Rilla. I grant you young girls (and boys for that matter) fantasize and dream of the perfect romance. They respond openly, however, with anger, confusion and rebellion. All normal transitional stuff. As a veteran of combat, men rarely talk to their women (or other noncombatants) because there is no way to describe the situations and how you (the individual soldier) reacted and responded. I have read a number of very well written personal descriptions of combat situations and not one of them contains the emotion(s) of the actual moments. I don't profess to understand the fear and pain of the mothers, sisters and loved ones at home and in the same vein of thought, noncombatant authors should not project their emotions (no matter how true to their gender and experience) as an understanding of those of the soldier. I've vented.
On the other hand, I liked LMM's writing style. The Canadian politics and views towards America at the time were very interesting. Most of my reading has been from the American perspective so this was a bit enlightening. While Rilla's maturation and perspective change was well portrayed, I found it to be a flight of fancy. I doubt any upper middle-class teenage Canadian girls in the second decade of the twentieth century would respond even remotely like Rilla. Having said all this, it is fiction, so enjoy the rest of your read.
Monday, September 16, 2013
"Response to Flanders Field"
Yes, Walter had to sign up. Montgomery's portrayal of a war torn family, country and world is heart rendering. It speaks to all the women and families left at home to deal with the reality of daily living and the heartbreaking yearnings of women, all women, all around the world in all countries, in all wars. This is so real to us because we love Anne and her family, Rilla, Walter, Shirley, Dr. Blythe, all of them, even the caddy shallow girls. So you know the poem "In Flanders Fields" by John McCrae, read this:
"Response to Flanders Field"
In Flanders Field again the sound
Of marching men and guns resound.
And from the sky the larks have flown
To leave but airplanes weirdest drone.
Ye, who are dead can rest no more,
Your countries are again at war.
The ones you loved like you will fight
For freedoms cause. To make it right
To live and work as we see fit.
The war you fought was but a bit
And was not won but simply ceased
Until they could, once more in peace
Regain their power and rule the world.
But we, united, flag unfurled
Have caught your torch, will hold it high
And though we suffer, though we die
See this war through. Once and for all,
To rise again as enemies fall.
Rest now in peace ye Flanders dead.
We march with firm but solemn tread.
And as we march our hands we raise
In true salute and silent praise.
Not word perfect but it fits, doesn't it?
Yes, Walter had to sign up. Montgomery's portrayal of a war torn family, country and world is heart rendering. It speaks to all the women and families left at home to deal with the reality of daily living and the heartbreaking yearnings of women, all women, all around the world in all countries, in all wars. This is so real to us because we love Anne and her family, Rilla, Walter, Shirley, Dr. Blythe, all of them, even the caddy shallow girls. So you know the poem "In Flanders Fields" by John McCrae, read this:
"Response to Flanders Field"
In Flanders Field again the sound
Of marching men and guns resound.
And from the sky the larks have flown
To leave but airplanes weirdest drone.
Ye, who are dead can rest no more,
Your countries are again at war.
The ones you loved like you will fight
For freedoms cause. To make it right
To live and work as we see fit.
The war you fought was but a bit
And was not won but simply ceased
Until they could, once more in peace
Regain their power and rule the world.
But we, united, flag unfurled
Have caught your torch, will hold it high
And though we suffer, though we die
See this war through. Once and for all,
To rise again as enemies fall.
Rest now in peace ye Flanders dead.
We march with firm but solemn tread.
And as we march our hands we raise
In true salute and silent praise.
Not word perfect but it fits, doesn't it?
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Rilla
Rilla had to grow up so fast. Why shouldn't she have been vain and full of dreams when she was fourteen? Being fifteen and going to parties was all any of them lived for. But I do feel that her dream days were taken from her very suddenly and harshly. Poor Rilla. But she is so strong and determined. It is during trials and hard times that we find out who we really are and find our strengths.
I was so happy when she brought that baby home with her and cared for it so vigilantly. And when she continued with the concert even though her heart was broken. Her strength has made me want to do better. And in the end, I think that is what it is about. We all strengthen each other by the way we live.
I was so happy when she brought that baby home with her and cared for it so vigilantly. And when she continued with the concert even though her heart was broken. Her strength has made me want to do better. And in the end, I think that is what it is about. We all strengthen each other by the way we live.
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Living in War
It is interesting to me how the Blythe family and everyone else, live and breathe the war each day. They know all the principle players and geography.
Although I was sad Walter went to war, I appreciated why he made the choice, and how Rilla found the strength to continue with the concert.
This book portrays such humor, tenderness and faith and strength , it shows the good and bad in people, under stressful and politically charged situations.
Like Shyla , I too love this book.
Although I was sad Walter went to war, I appreciated why he made the choice, and how Rilla found the strength to continue with the concert.
This book portrays such humor, tenderness and faith and strength , it shows the good and bad in people, under stressful and politically charged situations.
Like Shyla , I too love this book.
We do what we have to
In Chapter 9, Susan says "[w]hen we have to do a thing, . . ., we can do it." I think that's one of the great messages in this book. Walter doesn't want to go to war, but he has to, and he can. Rilla doesn't want to take care of a baby or grow up, but she has to, and she can. And like Walter says in Chapter 15, nothing can "take away the happiness we win for ourselves in the way of duty." I find that to be true. When we do difficult things that are our duty, there is that feeling of self-respect, of a certain kind of peace, and a feeling of something that rises about life's tragedies in a way that makes you feel a little invincible. Not invincible from sorrow or from physical death, but invincible from feeling that the pains of our earthly life is all there is, because we know that there is something more that matters - doing what we believe is right and good without regard to the physical and emotional toll it might take on us - being right with our souls and with God. Have I ever mentioned that I love this book??
Sunday, September 8, 2013
A Master Blender
It's no secret that I love LM Montgomery and the Anne of Green Gables series. This is certainly one of my favorite books and I think an impressive feat of the author. It still has a lot of the tone and style found in the other Anne books - including light-hearted moments. But it is also a weighty book that very seriously addresses the war. Montgomery does a great job blending all of this together. And then the book is powerful because it just seems so real. Yes, Rilla, is a very self-centered young girl. I was that way as a young girl too! But eventually you learn you have to step up. Rilla is beginning to realize that. And the rest of the book, how it portrays waiting at home during the war seems very real to me, which is not surprising since it's written by a person who did just that. I can't think of another book I've ever read like this - that solely addresses the waiting-at-home perspective of war. Because of the way she blends together such serious issues with factual events with still telling the story of a young girl growing up and with her light-hearted style and loveable characters, this is probably her most impressive book.
Rilla is such a girl! Such a self-centered, innocent, naive young woman who only sees beauty and selfish discontent in her ordered glorious world. It's sad already! And Susan Baker and Miss Sophia are Marilla and Rachel Lynde of the this generation? Does every life have similar characters with strong influence in a person's life. Geez (sp), I've spent too much time with Tenn today. How sappy.
Saturday, September 7, 2013
War !
I am enjoying the story, and the starry eyed way L. M. Montgomery writes.
I feel like dog Monday and just want to wait till everyone comes home.
I am also waiting for Rilla to realize she loves babies.
It is interesting to me to see the war from the perspective of the women and family left at home.
I feel like dog Monday and just want to wait till everyone comes home.
I am also waiting for Rilla to realize she loves babies.
It is interesting to me to see the war from the perspective of the women and family left at home.
Monday, September 2, 2013
Tidbits and Quotes
Here are some tidbits, courtesy of Wikipedia:
Lucy Maud Montgomery was born in Prince Edward Island on November 30, 1874. Her mother died of tuberculosis when Lucy was 21 months old. Stricken with grief over his wife’s death, Hugh John Montgomery gave custody over to Montgomery’s maternal grandparents. During her teaching years, Montgomery had numerous love interests. As a highly fashionable young woman, she enjoyed "slim, good looks," and she won the attention of several young men.
Rilla of Ingleside is the only Canadian novel written from a woman's perspective about the First World War by a contemporary.
And here are 2 quotes I found on the internet:
On the 5th of August, 1914, L.M. Montgomery wrote in her journal:
"Good God, I cannot believe it! It must be a horrible dream. It has come up like a thundercloud…It has come. Britain or Germany must fall. But the death-grapple will be awful beyond anything ever known in the world before. Oh, if I could but waken up and find it all a dream….Already Canada is ablaze. Volunteers are being called for Red Cross and patriotic funds are being started. The bottom has fallen out of the world’s markets. Civilization stands aghast at the horror that is coming upon it."
In my latest story, “Rilla of Ingleside,” I have tried, as far as in me lies, to depict the fine and splendid way in which the girls of Canada reacted to the Great War – their bravery, patience and self-sacrifice. The book is theirs in a sense in which none of my other books have been: for my other books were written for anyone who might like to read them: but “Rilla” was written for the girls of the great young land I love, whose destiny it will be their duty and privilege to shape and share.
– L.M. Montgomery, from “How I Became a Writer,” 1921
Lucy Maud Montgomery was born in Prince Edward Island on November 30, 1874. Her mother died of tuberculosis when Lucy was 21 months old. Stricken with grief over his wife’s death, Hugh John Montgomery gave custody over to Montgomery’s maternal grandparents. During her teaching years, Montgomery had numerous love interests. As a highly fashionable young woman, she enjoyed "slim, good looks," and she won the attention of several young men.
Rilla of Ingleside is the only Canadian novel written from a woman's perspective about the First World War by a contemporary.
And here are 2 quotes I found on the internet:
On the 5th of August, 1914, L.M. Montgomery wrote in her journal:
"Good God, I cannot believe it! It must be a horrible dream. It has come up like a thundercloud…It has come. Britain or Germany must fall. But the death-grapple will be awful beyond anything ever known in the world before. Oh, if I could but waken up and find it all a dream….Already Canada is ablaze. Volunteers are being called for Red Cross and patriotic funds are being started. The bottom has fallen out of the world’s markets. Civilization stands aghast at the horror that is coming upon it."
In my latest story, “Rilla of Ingleside,” I have tried, as far as in me lies, to depict the fine and splendid way in which the girls of Canada reacted to the Great War – their bravery, patience and self-sacrifice. The book is theirs in a sense in which none of my other books have been: for my other books were written for anyone who might like to read them: but “Rilla” was written for the girls of the great young land I love, whose destiny it will be their duty and privilege to shape and share.
– L.M. Montgomery, from “How I Became a Writer,” 1921
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
We'll start the next book after Labor Day
The next book is Rilla of Ingleside by L.M. Montgomery. The first post will be due the first weekend after Labor Day. That means (Karen) you would need to start reading it on Labor Day. Give me a week or so to get a reading schedule up. (Besides Tecia needs a little bit more time to finish The Professor.) Uncle Chuck, I'm not sure if you will like this book but it is set in World War I. Tegan, I thought you might be interested to know that you can get this book on audio.
Other good news: I have a pretty clear idea on what I want the next 4 books to be!
Other good news: I have a pretty clear idea on what I want the next 4 books to be!
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Section 2
I know, I'm a bit behind. It's just been slow going with YW lessons and all this FPO stuff. I find Bronte's language excessive. It's hard to follow along sometimes, even when I go back and reread a section.
I'm glad that William finally has found a suitable mate in his mind. But it bugs me how unkind he was to Frances at first. In class, he could tell that she was struggling and kept on, in fact he pushed even harder!! I echo the comments made from this section. William is kinda a conceited and would indeed do well to get over himself. However, he is kind and cares more about the intellect than in good looks and flamboyance. So his priorities are in the right spot. Frances surpasses him. Leaving him that money!! She has high morals and the best kind because she is not puffed up.
I almost found it humorous his description of her when they met in the graveyard and then had tea in the house. He was so over the top and rose colored. Kinda reminded me of how Joey talks sometimes. I just had to roll my eyes. What a dork!
I do think they are well matched and if they end up together, he will treat her well. He and she can both survive on practically nothing so that won't be an issue.
I am disgusted in the Reuter and Pellet. Mostly Reuter. How petty of her to fire Frances and I'm glad Frances could see that and won't trust her even though the no reference is costing her a job. It probably would have anyway. I can't believe they are playing him like that. I'm glad he quite and I'm impressed with how he handles himself when around Reuter.
Can't wait to read what happens next!
I'm glad that William finally has found a suitable mate in his mind. But it bugs me how unkind he was to Frances at first. In class, he could tell that she was struggling and kept on, in fact he pushed even harder!! I echo the comments made from this section. William is kinda a conceited and would indeed do well to get over himself. However, he is kind and cares more about the intellect than in good looks and flamboyance. So his priorities are in the right spot. Frances surpasses him. Leaving him that money!! She has high morals and the best kind because she is not puffed up.
I almost found it humorous his description of her when they met in the graveyard and then had tea in the house. He was so over the top and rose colored. Kinda reminded me of how Joey talks sometimes. I just had to roll my eyes. What a dork!
I do think they are well matched and if they end up together, he will treat her well. He and she can both survive on practically nothing so that won't be an issue.
I am disgusted in the Reuter and Pellet. Mostly Reuter. How petty of her to fire Frances and I'm glad Frances could see that and won't trust her even though the no reference is costing her a job. It probably would have anyway. I can't believe they are playing him like that. I'm glad he quite and I'm impressed with how he handles himself when around Reuter.
Can't wait to read what happens next!
Monday, August 19, 2013
Monday, August 12, 2013
I thought the love scene was fitting to their personalities, in a weird way. The end got really wordy for me. Just tell us the good stuff already. But I really liked the point of view that the book is written from. And I liked the characters. I liked how Feances and Hunsden would argue (I thought you would appreciate that Mom). Frances isn't cowed by Hunsden which is awesome. And I love the end part about her being nervous when her son is sitting at Hunsden's knee. I'm really happy that William and Frances found each other. But I agree that meeting in the cemetery was a little far fetched. But that's why it's a book, right! I like happy endings. Thank you Brontė, and thank you Shyla.
Sunday, August 11, 2013
I like happy endings!
I really liked Frances character, she is smart, compassionate and honest, hard working. I also appreciated William's treatment and understanding her need for activity and growth.
I am glad I read the book, and look forward to the next.
I am glad I read the book, and look forward to the next.
Yuck! First of all, he loves her for who knows how long and then he just shows up and professes his love. And then the "love scene" where he puts her on his knee. Gag me with a spoon! And how is she supposed to respond. I mean she was broke and she was still mourning. (I'm still trying to get over the coincidence of meeting at the graveyard). However, Chapter XX, the classic simile, William speaking about hating Mr. Pelet's guts "...grew spiny as a porcupine, and inflexible as a blackthorn cudgel." And then on the next page where William is putting to bed the obliterated Mr. Pelet "...his eyes in a fine frenzy rolling -- a pretty sight he was, a just medium between the fool and the lunatic." And then he moves because he is afraid he will have an affair with Mde Reuter. How do you rationalize immoral behavior--and William the ever present moralist! I don't know, it just struck me wrong. Who is Mr. Brown? Did I miss that somewhere? But in Hunsden's letter to William, "And this you may rely on: if she pleases my taste, or if I think it worth while in a pecuniary point of view, I'll pounce on your prize and bear her away triumphant in spite of your teeth. Ah, Hundsen, ever the idiot. But then the book really falls apart for me. I, too, am glad I read Charlotte's other books first. I'm sorry she had to live through that, that anyone had to, must still, live through that. However, I am glad we read the book. I'm excited about "Rilla". Let's get to it. I want to get the bad taste out of my mouth.
Next Book
Well it pains me to say it, because I think Charlotte Bronte is brilliant and she's one of my favorite writers, but I did not enjoy The Professor much. Actually, I kind of can't believe she's wrote it. I'm glad she was able to get that first novel out of the way, so that she could bring the world Jane Eyre and Villette. However, I'm not sorry I read it - now I just need to read Shirley to have read all of Charlotte's novels. The book does not stand on it's own, but is interesting in the sense of a study of Charlotte Bronte.
I have 3 other potential books in mind for book club - all ones that I've read before that I think will be better liked. The next one I would like to do is Rilla of Ingleside - because I'd like the twins to get this book read. You'll both like it, it's short, and you don't need to have read all of the Anne books first - this book can be read and liked without having read the whole series. When would you people like to start another book - please comment to let me know.
I have 3 other potential books in mind for book club - all ones that I've read before that I think will be better liked. The next one I would like to do is Rilla of Ingleside - because I'd like the twins to get this book read. You'll both like it, it's short, and you don't need to have read all of the Anne books first - this book can be read and liked without having read the whole series. When would you people like to start another book - please comment to let me know.
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Ouch! I've Been Bronted
I'm not a fan of any of the sisters Bronte; what's next? Really debbs..."a twisted desultory denouement ..."?!!
papachuckr
papachuckr
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Pelet and Reuter
I am quite disgusted at the behavior of these two school masters. They are both trying to trap William. Now, I agree with Shyla about Williams's character. But in this circumstance, I am glad that William sticks to his high morals and good opinion of himself. He has self control, which is something our society today is lacking as a whole. And because of this, it will be hard for anybody to make William look like, or feel like, a fool.
William is sort of an ass
So I guess I'm the only one that doesn't like William much? He's just so condescending and has a total superiority complex. I mean, I have those things too, and I even love it when people hang on my every word, but unlike William, I have the decency to be a little less obvious about it. Oh, and, he wants to give Frances "the gift of his affection." Bleh! Hey, here's something it might have been nice if Tecia had told him in high school like she did many others - get over yourself! I'm not saying he's all bad or that Frances won't benefit from a romantic relationship with him, I'm just saying, give me a break already!
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Romance at Last!
I have been hoping for true friendship or love for William , I really want a happily ever after here.
So much of of Charlotte words are poetry to me, I am under her spell and can't wait to keep reading.
So much of of Charlotte words are poetry to me, I am under her spell and can't wait to keep reading.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
I love the language of Bronte.
I love the language of Bronte. It does not have to be some far flung, convoluted story with flamboyant characters, a twisted desultory denouement with clashes of high and lows, twists and turns, and an unpredictable climax that includes a writing of the senses painful and exquisite. Just a simple little story using the "language of Bronte". An intense pleasure.
I failed to mention in my last post that I thought Mr. Pelet was a lecherous old man! He suggested that marrying any of the girls in his class would be a victory, both in love, class, and financial security. But he made the suggestion lewd and in this position that would be the last thing he would want the professor to be thinking. And then Mr. Pelet runs off with the not so intellectual but the shallow, manipulating Mde Reuter. Actually they do not run off so you gotta ask yourself, what are his (Mr. Pelet's) intentions.
The girls in the class have no integrity or respect. I believe this book was one of Charlotte's first novels but was first published after her death? Is that correct? At any rate, is she just practicing her craft of description and elocution when she delineates the characteristics of Aurelia, Adele, and Juana? The girls, to be sure, are just shallow brats. I have had some of them as students myself. Trust me when I tell you, they do not have to be teenagers to elicit such personality traits. In chapter 12, after his decorous remarks about the girls he allows himself to degrade their Catholicism. In fact, he hates Catholics. Actually, he is not found of Protestants either. Chapter IX uses both sides of a tapestry to describe females "...to the tutor, female youth, female charms are like tapestry hangings, of which the wrong side is continually turned towards him; and even when he sees the smooth, neat external surface he so well knows what knots,long stitches, and jagged ends are behind that he has scarce a temptation to admire too fondly the seemly forms and bright colours exposed to general view. But then he meets Mlle. Henri. End of Chapter 14 "I instantly inscribed 'Bon' at the bottom of the page, and returned it to her; she smiled, at first incredulously, then as if reassured, but did not lift her eyes; she could look at me, it seemed, when perplexed and bewildered, but not when gratified; I though that scarcely fair. (he's falling...)
Near the end of Chapter XV beginning with the paragraph "She still pursued me. 'You will observe, monsieur, and tell me what you think; I could so much better rely on your opinion that on my own; blah, blah, blah. On a note I wrote "Oh please, Mde. Reuter, you are so full of it".
And in the beginning of XVIII, somewhere in the middle of Paragraph 5, "I could hardly quit my station or relinquish my occupation; something retained me bending there, my head very near hers,and my hand near hers too; ..." I wrote 'poor sucker, he's head over heals in love with the girl'.
Gotta love it!
Chapter XIX First two paragraphs, what a treatise on life! Hope, love, life! Read it again. It is glorious! Next page when Mdme coily refuses to give Mlle Henri's address, William resigns. Good man (although professionally you never divulge the whereabouts of a former student). Her description of the graveyard is a grand touch, but meeting there by chance, after a month of intense search is a bit contrived. But what a dunce. He couldn't think of another way to leave her the money? (I'm not checking this for spelling or grammar) You must admit, this is a good read.
I failed to mention in my last post that I thought Mr. Pelet was a lecherous old man! He suggested that marrying any of the girls in his class would be a victory, both in love, class, and financial security. But he made the suggestion lewd and in this position that would be the last thing he would want the professor to be thinking. And then Mr. Pelet runs off with the not so intellectual but the shallow, manipulating Mde Reuter. Actually they do not run off so you gotta ask yourself, what are his (Mr. Pelet's) intentions.
The girls in the class have no integrity or respect. I believe this book was one of Charlotte's first novels but was first published after her death? Is that correct? At any rate, is she just practicing her craft of description and elocution when she delineates the characteristics of Aurelia, Adele, and Juana? The girls, to be sure, are just shallow brats. I have had some of them as students myself. Trust me when I tell you, they do not have to be teenagers to elicit such personality traits. In chapter 12, after his decorous remarks about the girls he allows himself to degrade their Catholicism. In fact, he hates Catholics. Actually, he is not found of Protestants either. Chapter IX uses both sides of a tapestry to describe females "...to the tutor, female youth, female charms are like tapestry hangings, of which the wrong side is continually turned towards him; and even when he sees the smooth, neat external surface he so well knows what knots,long stitches, and jagged ends are behind that he has scarce a temptation to admire too fondly the seemly forms and bright colours exposed to general view. But then he meets Mlle. Henri. End of Chapter 14 "I instantly inscribed 'Bon' at the bottom of the page, and returned it to her; she smiled, at first incredulously, then as if reassured, but did not lift her eyes; she could look at me, it seemed, when perplexed and bewildered, but not when gratified; I though that scarcely fair. (he's falling...)
Near the end of Chapter XV beginning with the paragraph "She still pursued me. 'You will observe, monsieur, and tell me what you think; I could so much better rely on your opinion that on my own; blah, blah, blah. On a note I wrote "Oh please, Mde. Reuter, you are so full of it".
And in the beginning of XVIII, somewhere in the middle of Paragraph 5, "I could hardly quit my station or relinquish my occupation; something retained me bending there, my head very near hers,and my hand near hers too; ..." I wrote 'poor sucker, he's head over heals in love with the girl'.
Gotta love it!
Chapter XIX First two paragraphs, what a treatise on life! Hope, love, life! Read it again. It is glorious! Next page when Mdme coily refuses to give Mlle Henri's address, William resigns. Good man (although professionally you never divulge the whereabouts of a former student). Her description of the graveyard is a grand touch, but meeting there by chance, after a month of intense search is a bit contrived. But what a dunce. He couldn't think of another way to leave her the money? (I'm not checking this for spelling or grammar) You must admit, this is a good read.
Monday, July 29, 2013
The X-Shire question
Okay, I did some googling in response to the questions about why she didn't use actual names of places. I also find that annoying, but I've seen it in lots of books by lots of different authors and it was normal to do that at the time in England. I found a website quoting someone named John Barth - I didn't verify this or anything, but it sounded good, so here you go:
"Initials, blanks, or both were often substituted for proper names in nineteenth century fiction to enhance the illusion of reality. It is as if the author felt it necessary to delete the names for reasons of tact or legal liability. Interestingly, as with other aspects of realism, it is an illusion that is being enhanced, by purely artificial means."
I do remember that when novels first started, authors went to a lot of trouble to make it seem like they were telling a true story. If you were telling a true story, you wouldn't use real names, and so hence the X-Shire.
"Initials, blanks, or both were often substituted for proper names in nineteenth century fiction to enhance the illusion of reality. It is as if the author felt it necessary to delete the names for reasons of tact or legal liability. Interestingly, as with other aspects of realism, it is an illusion that is being enhanced, by purely artificial means."
I do remember that when novels first started, authors went to a lot of trouble to make it seem like they were telling a true story. If you were telling a true story, you wouldn't use real names, and so hence the X-Shire.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Some items I noticed:
a nice style to employ a letter at the very beginning of the book to reveal the character and history of one of the main characters
I don't understand the "X shire or X___. Is that a common tool used by Bronte?
Crimsworth -even though it is a name, the contrast of the meaning of the two syllables makes my head swim. I have often thought when reading the text that my head is swimming. A couple of examples:
Mr. Pelet's mother at the beginning of Chapter 8 ...... but an incessant and most indiscreet talker (I know some people like that. None of us of course
Charles (or is it Edward's) dislike for the way Mr. Pelet treated some people, beginning of Chap 8 ...where intellectual inferiority is marked in lines none can mistake; still they were men, and, in the main, honest men; and I could not see why their being aboriginals of the flat, dull soil should serve as a pretext for treating them with perpetual severity and contempt. This idea of injustice somewhat poisoned the pleasure I might otherwise have derived from Pelet's soft affable manner to myself.
I am still baffled by the harsh manner in which the brothers, although connected only be a mother, treated each other.
Another head swimmer, end of Chapter X referring to Zoraide Reuter "I found afterwards that blunt susceptibilities are very consistent with strong propensities."
The contrast between the description of the site of the counting house to the landscape of Brussels. Was it physical reality or a change of heart? I have had many thoughts when reading but I didn't take good notes. In fact, I made very few notes. I am glad to be reading a new(to me) book by Charlotte Bronte. Although I am enjoying the book it is work!
a nice style to employ a letter at the very beginning of the book to reveal the character and history of one of the main characters
I don't understand the "X shire or X___. Is that a common tool used by Bronte?
Crimsworth -even though it is a name, the contrast of the meaning of the two syllables makes my head swim. I have often thought when reading the text that my head is swimming. A couple of examples:
Mr. Pelet's mother at the beginning of Chapter 8 ...... but an incessant and most indiscreet talker (I know some people like that. None of us of course
Charles (or is it Edward's) dislike for the way Mr. Pelet treated some people, beginning of Chap 8 ...where intellectual inferiority is marked in lines none can mistake; still they were men, and, in the main, honest men; and I could not see why their being aboriginals of the flat, dull soil should serve as a pretext for treating them with perpetual severity and contempt. This idea of injustice somewhat poisoned the pleasure I might otherwise have derived from Pelet's soft affable manner to myself.
I am still baffled by the harsh manner in which the brothers, although connected only be a mother, treated each other.
Another head swimmer, end of Chapter X referring to Zoraide Reuter "I found afterwards that blunt susceptibilities are very consistent with strong propensities."
The contrast between the description of the site of the counting house to the landscape of Brussels. Was it physical reality or a change of heart? I have had many thoughts when reading but I didn't take good notes. In fact, I made very few notes. I am glad to be reading a new(to me) book by Charlotte Bronte. Although I am enjoying the book it is work!
William--is that his name?
So, I have read the first four chapters and I was re-reading them, thinking I was ahead of the game. Then I talked to Mom and she informed me that we were supposed to read thru chapter 11. Oops, my bad. I must be a little rusty on my Roman Numerals! I told myself I wasn't going to read the other posts because they would be spoilers. But, I read Tecia's and Shyla's post anyway and they have somewhat changed my ideas. I am going to forge on, however, and try not to look like an idiot.
So far, I like the main character a lot. (believe it or not, his name is not mentioned in the first four chapters. I know, I've read them twice). These are some of my favorite quotes and thoughts of his.
1. Chapter II
"A sentiment of keen pleasure accompanied this first effort to earn my own living..."
I appreciate anyone who is willing to work. I think it says a lot about a person. A person who is willing to work can do anything they want to do. Even become a professor, which is what I assume, (and now know from previous posts), what William really wants to do.
2. Chapter II
"I said to myself, I will place my cup under this continual dropping; it shall stand there still and steady; when full, it will run over of itself-meantime patience."
He is referring to Edward's treatment of him. I don't like Edward. I look forward to the time when William's cup runneth over.
3. Chapter II
"As to the fact of my brother assuming towards me the bearing of a proud, harsh master, the fault is his, not mine..."
William seems to understand that he cannot change or control another person, he can only change and control himself. It does seem that he doesn't have much love for his brother, and his brother definitely doesnt have love for him. But at least William is showing more signs of maturity. Previous posts have indicated that some uncles had treated William harshly. But they don't mention Edward. So it will be interesting to see if anything comes to light about their relationship.
I don't quite know what to think of Mr. Hunsden. What is his problem?
I look forward to the next 18 chapters!
So far, I like the main character a lot. (believe it or not, his name is not mentioned in the first four chapters. I know, I've read them twice). These are some of my favorite quotes and thoughts of his.
1. Chapter II
"A sentiment of keen pleasure accompanied this first effort to earn my own living..."
I appreciate anyone who is willing to work. I think it says a lot about a person. A person who is willing to work can do anything they want to do. Even become a professor, which is what I assume, (and now know from previous posts), what William really wants to do.
2. Chapter II
"I said to myself, I will place my cup under this continual dropping; it shall stand there still and steady; when full, it will run over of itself-meantime patience."
He is referring to Edward's treatment of him. I don't like Edward. I look forward to the time when William's cup runneth over.
3. Chapter II
"As to the fact of my brother assuming towards me the bearing of a proud, harsh master, the fault is his, not mine..."
William seems to understand that he cannot change or control another person, he can only change and control himself. It does seem that he doesn't have much love for his brother, and his brother definitely doesnt have love for him. But at least William is showing more signs of maturity. Previous posts have indicated that some uncles had treated William harshly. But they don't mention Edward. So it will be interesting to see if anything comes to light about their relationship.
I don't quite know what to think of Mr. Hunsden. What is his problem?
I look forward to the next 18 chapters!
Mixed Feelings about William
I have mixed feelings about William. A lot of the time while I'm reading I think he needs to get over himself. He thinks of himself as sort of humble, but he really isn't, he seems pretty full of himself. For instance, he always thinks he has the upper hand in conversations and observing people, and that he's controlling the conversation and/or observing and understanding people better than they are him, or at least that he's controlling their perceptions of him. I know just how he feels because I think that all the time, and believe me it's an ego thing. Also, I'm getting a little tired of him calling people ugly, dumb, immoral, and so on. Sheesh. A little judgmental aren't we?
On the other hand, I like his independent spirit. It would be scary to shake off his uncles like he did, and it takes real drive to do what he did. Besides, he could have written a handbook on career advice that would have tips for teaching as well as any office job and even lawyering. First, how people perceive you is critical - assume a certain personality and act a certain way because that's your job. Second, when your boss asks you to do something - like start teaching immediately - you don't hesitate and you just pretend you're up to the job (in the process of pretending you're up to the job, you usually become capable of doing the job). And so on. He has a very good approach to his career, and I like that about him.
On the other hand, I like his independent spirit. It would be scary to shake off his uncles like he did, and it takes real drive to do what he did. Besides, he could have written a handbook on career advice that would have tips for teaching as well as any office job and even lawyering. First, how people perceive you is critical - assume a certain personality and act a certain way because that's your job. Second, when your boss asks you to do something - like start teaching immediately - you don't hesitate and you just pretend you're up to the job (in the process of pretending you're up to the job, you usually become capable of doing the job). And so on. He has a very good approach to his career, and I like that about him.
By Tecia
I've enjoyed the book so far. It's not a page turner keep me up till 3am or anything. But I really like her development of the characters. It has come on gradually to me and I feel like they are realistic and I can totally picture them.
There are some sentences that have gotten a little wordy but I downloaded the dictionary on my kindle app and so now I just have to click on the word to understand it's full meaning. The parts in French totally bug me. But I like his classroom management. How ideal! Putting kids in their place but still earning their respect.
I also don't understand the place of "X--" where his brother lived. Why do they call it that and not the name?
I have enjoyed his journey in life so far. I admire the choices he's made. Leaving a family that had wealth but didn't treat him kindly or respect him, then to try and make it with his tyrant of a brother. He worked hard, managed his money well and now is in France where he took a huge chance, but seems to be enjoying being a professor.
I wonder what the rest of the book will hold?
There are some sentences that have gotten a little wordy but I downloaded the dictionary on my kindle app and so now I just have to click on the word to understand it's full meaning. The parts in French totally bug me. But I like his classroom management. How ideal! Putting kids in their place but still earning their respect.
I also don't understand the place of "X--" where his brother lived. Why do they call it that and not the name?
I have enjoyed his journey in life so far. I admire the choices he's made. Leaving a family that had wealth but didn't treat him kindly or respect him, then to try and make it with his tyrant of a brother. He worked hard, managed his money well and now is in France where he took a huge chance, but seems to be enjoying being a professor.
I wonder what the rest of the book will hold?
Sunday, July 7, 2013
"On the Death of Anne Bronte" by Charlotte Bronte
There's little joy in life for me,
And little terror in the grave;
I've lived the parting hour to see
Of one I would have died to save.
Calmly to watch the failing breath,
Wishing each sigh might be the last;
Longing to see the shade of death
O'er those beloved features cast.
The cloud, the stillness that must part
The darling of my life from me;
And then to thank God from my heart,
To thank Him well and fervently;
Although I knew that we had lost
The hope and glory of our life;
And now, benighted, tempest-tossed
Must bear alone the weary strife.
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
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