A sort of prolusion: I wrote this after finishing a truly wonderful book that would be recommended by many who love literature. It made me actualise how I've been judging the difference between a good story and a good book. And as you will see, I have mentioned, Inspired as a sentiment left by a good book. I mean, it got me to write this little piece right?
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When I read a book, throughout its chapters I'm wondering what' part of it is going to decide whether it's going to be good or bad. As one would come across parts, characters and sentiments that don't appeal to them. I do too, though there are also things that I get from it.
However from all the books I’ve read so far I'll have to say that the end is what draws me to my conclusion on sentiment or opinion toward any book along with the character attachment that the writer has built up for me, as a reader to enjoy.
By 'end' though, I don't mean a happy ending, or concluding the book with what would make it good story, though the idea of a good story may vary from person to person. It is the last line of every book that leaves me with my decision. Even if the ending is implausible and the last line is one that gives me a feeling of which can only be described as a sort of freedom I feel in my chest and an involuntary 'wow' or a relieved sigh escaping my lips.
It means to me, that the writer has left a kind Impression on me. In more than just that of the writer’s literary genius. It makes it a good book.
Something more along the sentiments of exhilaration, happiness, wonder and curiosity are left with me. Sometimes I’m left motivated or inspired. Hopeful, or just with a smile plastered across my face. I'm even left tears in my eyes at times.
I read every last line of a book twice, sometimes even over and over again.
Why you ask?
Once for the story. Once for my decision on whether it's a book I'd recommend, as in good story or good book. And the rest of the times are to feel that freedom and whisper the involuntary 'Wow'.
-------x-------x-------x-------------
When I read a book, throughout its chapters I'm wondering what' part of it is going to decide whether it's going to be good or bad. As one would come across parts, characters and sentiments that don't appeal to them. I do too, though there are also things that I get from it.
However from all the books I’ve read so far I'll have to say that the end is what draws me to my conclusion on sentiment or opinion toward any book along with the character attachment that the writer has built up for me, as a reader to enjoy.
By 'end' though, I don't mean a happy ending, or concluding the book with what would make it good story, though the idea of a good story may vary from person to person. It is the last line of every book that leaves me with my decision. Even if the ending is implausible and the last line is one that gives me a feeling of which can only be described as a sort of freedom I feel in my chest and an involuntary 'wow' or a relieved sigh escaping my lips.
It means to me, that the writer has left a kind Impression on me. In more than just that of the writer’s literary genius. It makes it a good book.
Something more along the sentiments of exhilaration, happiness, wonder and curiosity are left with me. Sometimes I’m left motivated or inspired. Hopeful, or just with a smile plastered across my face. I'm even left tears in my eyes at times.
I read every last line of a book twice, sometimes even over and over again.
Why you ask?
Once for the story. Once for my decision on whether it's a book I'd recommend, as in good story or good book. And the rest of the times are to feel that freedom and whisper the involuntary 'Wow'.
Copyright © Kanika Chopra. 2012.
Totally agree with you on the determining of a book as good or bad based on certain portions or chapters of it.
ReplyDeleteI try to visualize anything I read as a movie. If the author,or hypothetically the director for me, holds my attention till the very end, its a great book for me.
And I see you are a fan of The Fountainhead too...The best book I ever read I think
Well, we all have to imagine it somehow or the other :)
DeleteThank you! and yes, it was an amazing book :)
Which book was it that made u write this post?
ReplyDeleteThe fountainhead
DeleteI was talking about this one! I looove this! :)
ReplyDeleteThank you :D
ReplyDelete