read the classics

I just started reading the Iliad last night, when I went to the library I wanted to get the Iliad (I’ve been wanting to read it for a long time) and I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings jumped out at me, so I will be reading that too, before the 26 of August when my library books are do.

I don’t know about the translation that my library had. It’s a Dover Thrift Edition, translated by Samuel Butler, has anyone read this one? I’ve read Fagle’s translation of the Odyssey and really enjoyed it, so I’ve got his translation on reserve at the library now and may pick that one up when it comes in.

I also bought a copy of The Giver which may or may not be considered classic (soft) sci-fi. So I’ll be (re)reading that one soon too.

I didn’t finish The Prince quite as quickly as I hoped, but I read a good chunk of it on the bus today and I will read more tonight. Tomorrow - and I know this isn’t a classic - my friend’s lending me the new HP, so… umm, it will be finished before then.

I really like this translation. It’s really straight forwards and no flowery language. ‘If you do this, then this. If you don’t do this, then that. For example…’ It makes sense, and this guy was pretty smart even if he didn’t get the job… Then after the library books and HP, I will be reading something that my library has for me.

I majored in literature and feel like I don’t know enough of the classics. I feel like my knowledge of literary classics is kind of spotty and I want to fix this. Because, well as a (graduated) lit major I can’t stand saying, “No, I haven’t read The Prince, or the Iliad, or Anna Karenina or … “

And that needs fixing. I should make up a list of things to read.

But, for this weekend my goal is to read The Prince I checked it out from the library today and I’m thinking I should finish it tomorrow. Or maybe read it slower for deeper understanding, I haven’t decided yet.