Cheerskep, since you threw in an "etc" at the end, I'm wondering about your list of the generically different virtues that are the reasons that you enjoy different books.
Is the following list is complete ? 1."rich and mellifluous" writing 2. Grip of their story and/or characters. 3. The way they move us 4. Humor ..and might you expand upon "The way they move us" -- as that would be distinguished from the other three ? (BTW -- there's a discussion of the "little eyases" on this page: http://www.shaksper.net/archives/2004/1666.html I'm sure that the title, 'The Meaning of Hamlet" would make you cringe, but it is a nice argument for not nodding off during that passage) ******************* No, no . For example, I'd say the likes of, "I think HAMLET is a terrific play! All in all, for me it's the terrificest of any I've ever read or seen!" But that's not to say every line deserves to be sewn on a lap-pillow. For me, the stuff about the Little Eyases is a yawn. (Bet you can't even remember that passage!) I know it hasn't "landed" with you guys, but there's a possibility that my speech saying it's a mistake to consider a novel or play a "single" "work of art" just may be unique. I'm less ready to say something like that about a painting, even though in the execution it is somewhat as much a multiplex of acts as a novel. I'm given pause by the perhaps deluded sense that there are some paintings where we can "take it all in" instantly. As for Chris's further ponderings (below), I'd say I enjoy different books for generically different virtues. For example, some guys give pleasurelargely from their "style", their "rich and mellifluous" writing. Others for the grip of their story and/or characters. Others for the way they "move" us. Etc. I can be gripped with interest throughout a book without ever reaching the level of "ecstasy" I identify with an a.e. Still others I love for their humor. Now, here's a forum question: Given that some poems ring up an a.e. with a single line, would you say that when we laugh at a hilarious line in a book or play or movie, it is for us an a.e.? If I think about it, my response to lines that have broken me up has been in many ways very like what I call an a.e.. _____________________________________________________________ Click here to find the rental car that fits your needs. http://thirdpartyoffers.netzero.net/TGL2211/fc/Ioyw6ijmhQ3A50RfEnk9fPQsyauapx mYv4uqTpdRzMz6XDXYbp1XYw/?count=1234567890
