Try Again to Read Ulysses (Keeping an Open Mind)

My favorite English prof once told me this was a good idea. And, as it’s been awhile since Homer and I were on speaking terms, I thought that I could use a little refreshing.

Thanks, chewingfoil, for the great sparknotes site. I think you’re right about the necessity of finding Joyce’s narrative rhythm. To tell the truth, I’ve never really cared that much for stream of consciousness. Yeah, yeah…I know it’s heretical. (This may be the time to confess that I have yet to be overwhelmed by Faulkner, too.)

I have the friut juice and a big hat, now all I need is a brick patio…oh, and summer. 5 years ago

I’ve tried, really I have. I’ve tried hard. I know it’s brillant and genius and only idiots don’t like it. I know that it always seems to be at the top of “Best Novels of the 20th Century” lists. Whatever.

“But,” I tell myself, “you loved Moby Dick when you gave it a chance.”

“But,” I answer, “Melville used sentences and Ishmael was interesing.”

“Try anyway.” 5 years ago