The Great Gatsby

Hi Honey,

One of my resolutions this year is to read more.  As a matter of fact, I hope to read one book after another and always have one at hand.   They say if you want to be a better writer you need to read.  I decided that I would start with classic authors.

After watching "Midnight in Paris" which portrayed several writers, I was inspired to select "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald for my first.  I keep a notebook handy because I tend to forget who the characters are so I write them down in case I need a quick reminder.   Upon completing the final chapter I thought I understood the basic plot but was still a little confused.

I watched the film last night and it helped to see faces and names together.  I was really looking forward to the book and had been wanting to see the film for some time.  I saw just a glimpse of it once and recall the image of Gatsby standing by looking mysterious and noble while a raucous party raged at his home.

I was disappointed at both the book and the film.  It was listed as one of the best ever.  After reading it, I really cannot understand why.  I was glad when both were over.  In my mind, a "classic" must be well written and memorable.  When I am finished I expect to be so enamored with the characters that I wish I could keep reading about them.  I expect that there would be at least one who I would want to quote.

I don't want to ruin the story for folks who have yet to but plan to read it but I would not read the book a second time nor watch the film again.  I almost purchased a copy instead of borrowing it from the library.  I am glad I did not.   It did not seem like there was any moral to the story.   It was impossible to grow fond of any of the characters.

The next one I read will be by Ernest Hemingway.  I've read "The Old Man and The Sea" and enjoyed it very much.  I trust I'll enjoy his other works.   It just goes to show that you cannot always count on the opinions of others.  I wonder if anyone else disliked the book.

Well Honey , that's what I'm up to these days.  I just started working full time today at my job.  I'm still trying to get organized and figure out my life.  

Love you....