Classics

[dalek]

I really struggle with the language in classic novels. I hear about people who love Austen, Dickens, Hardy etc and reread them but I just can't get past the language.

Do you think you have to have read classics as a child or at school to enjoy them? It's just a thought. Both me and my friend read alot but we both have this problem with classics ( we went to school together and did A level English Literature together).

Should I persuade DD (12) to try the classics? At the moment she is a Gone/Cherub/I am number 4 sort of reader.

Are there any classics that anyone could recommend as an easy read for a 45 year old?

TIA
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I found Therese Raquin (by Emile Zola) easy to read. Also Madam Bovary (Gustave Flaubert). I wonder if whether because they are translated into English keeps the language plainer. Not sure

I found it was easier to move on to the classics from classic books for children; What Katy did, Little Women, Anne of Green Gables etc. Then you are in the mindset of the older language style.
Since I got my smartphone with a e-reader on it, I have read 70 something classics (as they are free :) ) and have really enjoyed most of them.

strike out fail

dalek: A classic that I enjoyed recently was New Grub Street by Gissing. I found it very readable (much more so than Hardy, say) so you might too.

The Diary of a Nobody is another easy read - and I guess it's a classic of sorts.

Really interesting question, dalek.

I read the classics at school but have enjoyed them much more as an adult tbh. The subtle humour of Jane Austen was a bit lost on me as a teenager, for example.

I do agree that Dickens is an acquired taste, but you should be OK with Mrs Gaskell, George Eliot or Arnold Bennett (try The Old Wives' Tale)

I think it's worth persevering. I've become a bit fed up with some modern novels - there are honourable exceptions - and I've gone back to the classics recently. I really enjoy a good linear narrative where characters develop and the plot unfolds gradually without leaping between time periods .. I think that's a v overused device atm.

For your DD, maybe try Ballet Shoes? It was one of my favourites :)

Thank you for your replies ladies. I have downloaded the suggested titles.

Wish me luck

Dalek
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