A TALE OF A VORACIOUS READER
A bookmark was given to me by a beloved friend on the day of her mother's memorial service. It says: “A truly great book should be read in youth, again in maturity, and once more in old age, as a fine building should be seen by morning light, at noon, and by moonlight.” (Robertson Davies). That is so true that it almost hurts.
I have many sets of books that I have re-read many times; only a very few I never want to have to fight my way through again. 'Anna Karenina' is one example; I was told it was one of the best novels ever written. Thank you, but no. I will read a dictionary or encyclopedia before I read that again.
I find myself engrossed in a story that is phenomenal, if one is mentioned. I have even purchased a huge set of that entire author's works, just because of the recommendation. One such is Mercedes Lackey. She has over 35 works in the same series. Another is Rita Mae Brown. I have over 40 of her books, and she is still going strong. Her book 'Six of One,' is one of humor, tears and just downright fun.
I don't read only fiction, but I prefer it over the majority of non-fiction. I will admit to my love of histories, especially of the Titanic, Lizzie Borden and some gruesome killers. I have a friend whose library is only histories of killers, and Stephen King's thrillers. I have nothing against Mr. King, but he is not my cup of tea.
I believe in studying chronic illnesses, especially epilepsy, and LGBT-oriented works; well, most LGBT authors. Discrimination of any type is unsettling at best, and abhorrent at worst. Being an older gay man, on a cane, with balance problems, epilepsy and brittle bones...I believe it's obvious.
I leave with a quote from 'The World Well Lost', written by the late, great Theodore Sturgeon.
“Why must we love where the lightning strikes, and not where we want? But I'm glad it's you, little prince...I'm glad it's you.”
I have many sets of books that I have re-read many times; only a very few I never want to have to fight my way through again. 'Anna Karenina' is one example; I was told it was one of the best novels ever written. Thank you, but no. I will read a dictionary or encyclopedia before I read that again.
I find myself engrossed in a story that is phenomenal, if one is mentioned. I have even purchased a huge set of that entire author's works, just because of the recommendation. One such is Mercedes Lackey. She has over 35 works in the same series. Another is Rita Mae Brown. I have over 40 of her books, and she is still going strong. Her book 'Six of One,' is one of humor, tears and just downright fun.
I don't read only fiction, but I prefer it over the majority of non-fiction. I will admit to my love of histories, especially of the Titanic, Lizzie Borden and some gruesome killers. I have a friend whose library is only histories of killers, and Stephen King's thrillers. I have nothing against Mr. King, but he is not my cup of tea.
I believe in studying chronic illnesses, especially epilepsy, and LGBT-oriented works; well, most LGBT authors. Discrimination of any type is unsettling at best, and abhorrent at worst. Being an older gay man, on a cane, with balance problems, epilepsy and brittle bones...I believe it's obvious.
I leave with a quote from 'The World Well Lost', written by the late, great Theodore Sturgeon.
“Why must we love where the lightning strikes, and not where we want? But I'm glad it's you, little prince...I'm glad it's you.”
6 years ago