Last year my New Year’s resolution was to read Ulysses by James Joyce. I read an annotated version, which was essentially like reading two books. When the annotations started referring to other annotations, sometimes even two or three other annotations, I thought of forgetting about it. But I’m nothing if I’m not persistent. Also, how could I live with myself if I didn’t follow through on a NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION?
It took me ten months, but I got through it. Would I recommend it? Nope. Not unless you have a deep knowledge of Irish history and a slightly masochistic bent.
Next year I may well read one or more of your recommendations, Kier, as they seem eminently sensible and I no longer trust my own judgement in these matters.
By the way, Happy Holidays!!
P.S.: Beware of New Year’s Resolutions. They can be a bitch.
I luv that you include Homesick for Another World, that’s basically the book that made me realize I could definitely write short stories and the passage about the guy who pours his own pints in the bar where they play Joanna Newsom is a continual source of inspiration.
Last year my New Year’s resolution was to read Ulysses by James Joyce. I read an annotated version, which was essentially like reading two books. When the annotations started referring to other annotations, sometimes even two or three other annotations, I thought of forgetting about it. But I’m nothing if I’m not persistent. Also, how could I live with myself if I didn’t follow through on a NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION?
It took me ten months, but I got through it. Would I recommend it? Nope. Not unless you have a deep knowledge of Irish history and a slightly masochistic bent.
Mind you, when I think of the people who took twenty eight years to get through Finnegan’s Wake as part of a book club, (https://www.theguardian.com/books/2023/nov/12/california-venice-book-club-finngeans-wake-28-years), I realize I might have taken the wrong approach altogether.
Next year I may well read one or more of your recommendations, Kier, as they seem eminently sensible and I no longer trust my own judgement in these matters.
By the way, Happy Holidays!!
P.S.: Beware of New Year’s Resolutions. They can be a bitch.
I luv that you include Homesick for Another World, that’s basically the book that made me realize I could definitely write short stories and the passage about the guy who pours his own pints in the bar where they play Joanna Newsom is a continual source of inspiration.
Happy holidays Kier, and thanks for sharing these!